Srinagar, June 11: Local stakeholders in Kashmir have welcomed the support from national tourism bodies for reviving the tourism sector in Kashmir. Tourism sector in valley is witnessing a downfall following Pahalgam terror attack on April 22. The attack led to mass cancellations of visits to valley, bringing the industry to a standstill.
The Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI), which represents over 1,600 travel agents across India, is holding its meeting in Kashmir from June 13 to 16. Members from different parts of the country will visit Srinagar and Pahalgam to see the ground situation firsthand.
“Our members will stay in local hotels and houseboats, and we will be meeting with government officials and representatives from airlines,” said Anil Kalsi, Vice President of TAFI. “If they find the situation safe, they will start promoting Kashmir as a tourist destination once again,” he added.
Tourism had picked up greatly in Kashmir after the COVID-19 pandemic, with record tourist numbers and high hotel tariffs. However after the Pahalgam attack many tourists left valley and future bookings were cancelled in large numbers.
These days hotel prices have dropped sharply due to lack of demand. “A luxury hotel in Kashmir, which used to charge around Rs 50,000 to 75,000 per night, is now offering rooms for just Rs 20,000-22,000 with packages,” said Kalsi, adding, “This shows how badly the industry has been hit.”
Local hoteliers and business owners are hopeful that the visit by TAFI members will bring back positive attention to the valley. “We are ready to welcome guests with full safety arrangements. The support from national organisations gives us hope,” said a Srinagar-based hotel owner.
Meanwhile, airlines are also seeking government support to revive air travel to and from Kashmir. The Federation of Indian Airlines (FIA), which includes major carriers like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, has written to the Ministry of Civil Aviation requesting urgent help.
“There is no demand for air travel to Srinagar right now. Flights are flying nearly empty, and hotels are vacant. We need strong steps to encourage tourists,” the letter stated.
