Doodhpathri, Yousmarg Reopening Depends On Security Clearance: Govt Tells Lawmaker Mehdi | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Friday told the Legislative Assembly that reopening of the tourist destinations Doodhpathri and Yousmarg is subject to security considerations, which are beyond the Tourism Department’s mandate.

The matter has been referred to the Deputy Commissioner of Budgam for appropriate action, the government said in response to a question raised by Budgam MLA Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi.

The government also acknowledged that recent incidents in the tourism sector have affected tourist arrivals and impacted the livelihoods of stakeholders in the industry.

To revive tourism, officials said the department has undertaken promotional campaigns, upgraded infrastructure, and implemented confidence-building measures. Several promotional events and thematic festivals have been organized across the Union Territory and at the national level, and the winter tourist season is showing increased activity, the statement added.

The department emphasized that the reopening of key destinations will proceed once security clearances are in place, ensuring safety for visitors and local communities.(KNS)