Srinagar, May 7 (NVI): Seeking to give a reassurance to tourists, a senior minister of Jammu and Kashmir said the government is focused on building a tourist-friendly ecosystem that boosts visitor confidence and contributes to economic growth and employment generation in the Union Territory.
The government is committed to ensure that every visitor feels secure, supported and well-connected throughout their journey, said Satish Sharma, Minister for Transport, Youth Services & Sports, said during an interaction with a group of tourists here.
The remarks assume significance as the tourist confidence was shaken after the ghastly terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam in south Kashmir on April 22 last year, in which 25 visitors and a local man were killed.
That dastardly attack by three Pakistani terrorists had caused a setback to tourism in Kashmir.
Sharma said the government is making all possible efforts to ensure smooth movement, comfortable stay and hassle-free travel for tourists visiting different parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
He said the administration has put in place adequate arrangements to provide transport facilitation, accommodation support, food and essential supplies, medical assistance and tourist guidance wherever required.
Calling tourists the “valued guests and ambassadors” of Jammu and Kashmir’s hospitality and culture, Sharma said
“The government is committed to provide a safe, welcoming and hassle-free environment for tourists. All departments are working in close coordination to ensure timely assistance and necessary facilities without inconvenience,” he said.
Highlighting tourism as a key pillar of the region’s economy, the Minister said Jammu and Kashmir continues to attract visitors from across the country and abroad because of its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.
He added that sustained efforts are underway to strengthen tourism infrastructure, improve transport connectivity, enhance public amenities and promote new tourist destinations across the Union Territory.
The Minister also interacted individually with several tourists and sought feedback regarding their travel experience and arrangements. He assured that all genuine concerns raised by visitors would be addressed promptly by the administration. (NVI)
