Bangus closure hits livelihoods, stakeholders seek reopening for tourists

The residents of Kupwara and those associated with the tourism sector have appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to take necessary steps for the reopening of Bangus Valley so that tourists from across the country can visit this pristine valley like before.

The residents said that the continued closure was adversely affecting the livelihoods of people dependent on the tourism sector.

The residents said that Bangus Valley happens to be one of the major tourist destinations in north Kashmir and is a great source to provide livelihood opportunities to hundreds of local residents, including guides, transport operators, pony owners, shopkeepers and others associated with tourism-related activities.

The residents said that the closure of Bangus has led to a significant decline in economic activity, leaving many families struggling to earn a livelihood.

“I have taken a loan from the bank and set up mobile tents in Bangus but following the Pahalgam attack, Bangus like other tourist places were closed for any sort of tourist activities. Although the rest of the places have now been opened for tourists, I fail to understand why Bangus is still closed,” said Mumtaz Ahmad from Chowkibal Kupwara.

Another youth who identified himself as Farooq from Hafrada said that he would run a makeshift dhaba in Bangus from April to September and earn his livelihood. “I had even hired two workers but after Bangus was closed I was subjected to close my business. For the last one year I have been sitting at home jobless, hoping against hope that Bangus would be opened for tourists but nothing like that happened causing distress for hundreds of youth like me,” he added.

The residents have requested the concerned authorities to take necessary measures for reopening of Bangus Valley so that tourism activities can resume and locals may start their business and earn their livelihood. “The reopening of Bangus would not only benefit local residents but also promote tourism in this frontier district, which is known for its scenic beauty and natural attractions,” they added. The residents have urged LG Manoj Sinha to address the issue on priority and facilitate the early reopening of Bangus for visitors.