Srinagar, Jan 04: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has called upon the Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah to address pressing challenges tourism stakeholders face regarding renewing tourism registration certificates.
The Chamber expresses serious concerns over the recent notification (No. Reg/1129/581/DTR dated 21-12-2024) issued by the Director of Tourism, Kashmir, urging that the process be streamlined to mitigate hardships for the tourism and hospitality sectors.
The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) had previously brought the issue to the attention of the Chief Minister during a meeting held on October 29 at the Civil Secretariat in Srinagar. At that time, the Chamber submitted a memorandum and later also sent a letter to the Chief Minister, detailing the challenges faced by tourism stakeholders. Although the authorities had assured the KCCI that they would work together to find a solution, the Chamber has expressed disappointment that no meaningful consultation took place before the latest notification was issued, leaving the concerns of stakeholders unaddressed.
Tourism stakeholders, including hoteliers, houseboats, guesthouse operators, restaurants, tour & travel sectors are grappling with an unnecessarily complex and time-consuming system for renewing their registration certificates. The process requires multiple clearances and NOCs from various departments, forcing stakeholders to endure endless office visits, extended waiting periods, and a growing list of formalities.
The chamber is disappointed that the introduction of an online renewal system did not simplify the process as intended. KCCI emphasises the difficulties faced by hotels and guest houses constructed decades ago under earlier regulatory frameworks but are being asked to comply with regulations enforced later on.