PDP Chief Appeals to LG Sinha to Reconsider Closures
SRINAGAR, April 1: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti has appealed to Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to reopen tourist destinations that were closed following an attack in Pahalgam last year. Mufti stated that several delegations from Anantnag had raised concerns about the prolonged closure of these sites, which are impacting local livelihoods.
The Chenab Times has learned that Mufti, during her visit to Anantnag on Wednesday, was approached by residents highlighting the closure of key tourist areas, particularly in Pahalgam. She specifically mentioned the continued closure of Chandanwari and the Bijbehara-Langanbal route, which hosts numerous resorts and businesses. Mufti emphasized that these closures are directly affecting the economic well-being of individuals and businesses that have made significant investments in the region’s tourism infrastructure.
Mufti noted that areas such as Baisaran and Chandanwari, popular tourist attractions in Pahalgam, remain shut. She explained that the closure affects not only resort owners but also a wide range of local service providers, including pony wallahs. She urged the administration to consider reopening these locations, even while ensuring adequate security arrangements are in place. Mufti pointed out that while an incident occurred in Baisaran, the closure of entire tourist areas across Kashmir due to one event is disproportionate.
The PDP leader referred to an incident where militants attacked tourists in Baisaran, Pahalgam, on April 22 of the previous year, resulting in casualties. In the aftermath, several tourist sites were closed as a precautionary security measure. Although many locations have since been reopened, some remain inaccessible to visitors and local operators.
Beyond the tourism sector, Mufti also addressed other pressing issues during her interaction with the media. She highlighted a perceived shortage of LPG, contradicting official statements that no such scarcity exists. The former Chief Minister of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir also made an appeal for the regularization of daily wagers. She stressed the significant concerns of this workforce, many of whom are nearing retirement age, and expressed hope that the government would consider their regularization.
The Chenab Times News Desk