Uri’s Kaman Post hosts 40k tourists in 2023

Uri, Dec 29: Kaman Post, known as bridge of peace, in Uri subdivision of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district has experienced a remarkable increase in footfall this year, hosting over 40,000 visitors, including tourists from various states across the country, officials reported.
The surge in tourism has allowed local residents to enjoy the benefits of border tourism, an initiative spearheaded by the Union Territory government.
Officials said that the opening of Kaman Post for civilians has paved the way for border tourism, offering every citizen an opportunity to witness this historic site.
Official data reveals that, on average, over 100 people daily visit Kaman Post in Uri, and these numbers have consistently risen over the past few months.
“Since April 2023, around 40,000 domestic and out-of-state tourists have visited the last post of Uri, connecting the Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road,” an official told Rising Kashmir.
“In May, 4664 visitors, including tourists from outside J&K, explored Kaman Post. The figures climbed to 5480 visitors in June and an impressive 6570 visitors in July.”
Officials said that the increasing number of visitors each month is encouraging.
“The Army is committed to ensuring the comfort and convenience of local visitors as well as tourists from outside J&K who come to visit Kaman Post,”the official further added.
To facilitate visitors, the Kaman Post Visitors’ Reception Centre has been established at Uri Brigade Gate-I.
Here, visitors are required to submit their Aadhaar card, and in the case of group visits, only one member needs to provide identification.
“These measures ensure a smooth and secure experience for all tourists,” the officer stated.
Recognizing the growing popularity of Kaman Post, Uri, the Army has also set up renovated convenience points for tourists, along with snacks and other refreshments.
Following the ceasefire agreement bringing silence to the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan in Kashmir, the opening of Kaman Post to tourists has allowed locals to reap the dividends of peace.
Local administration and the army in some areas are also assisting with opening homestays and guest houses.
Locals are urging the opening of areas like Rustum and Baba Fareed for tourists, believing it will significantly benefit the people of Uri.
Owais Ahmad, a local, expressed gratitude, stating, “I thank the Administration and army for bringing Uri on the tourist map. Tourists who visit Kaman Post do stop in Uri market, boosting the local economy.”
Officials emphasized that the initiative aims to boost the economy, create job opportunities for youngsters in bordering villages, and educate citizens about the history and sacrifices made by soldiers.
“The ‘Veer Path’ features busts of soldiers who laid down their lives in various wars, intending to inspire the younger generation. The army has also erected information displays about soldiers’ history at the location,” officials added.
The local administration in collaboration with the army are expecting more tourist influx next year with advanced facilities enroute Kaman Post.