Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah reaffirmed his government’s commitment to enhancing the tourism experience in the Union Territory during a special address to members of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) as part of their “Rally for the Valley” initiative in Srinagar.
Speaking at the event organised by TAAI’s J&K Chapter, the Chief Minister highlighted ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure, including directives to upgrade the Gulmarg gondola system to boost capacity, streamline ticketing, and enhance the overall experience for visitors. “We are using this time to focus on long-term improvements so that those who visit once are inspired to return,” he said.
Abdullah expressed heartfelt appreciation to the TAAI leadership, including President Sunil Kumar, for visiting Kashmir amid challenging circumstances. “Your presence here is more than symbolic; it’s a reaffirmation of friendship in difficult times,” said Abdullah, who also holds the tourism portfolio. “This solidarity matters deeply to everyone involved in our tourism sector.”
Reflecting on the April 22 Baisaran terror attack that claimed 26 lives, including 25 tourists, the Chief Minister acknowledged the profound impact the tragedy had on the people of the Valley. He praised the spontaneous, unified condemnation by citizens across Jammu and Kashmir, saying it reflected the region’s true character. “The response came not from any political platform but from the people’s hearts. They stood up to say this violence does not represent us,” he noted.
Calling for collective introspection and resilience, Abdullah remarked, “We may be going through a difficult season, but winter never lasts forever—the snow must melt.”
He also drew attention to improved regional connectivity, especially the newly operational railway lines that include the world’s highest railway bridge and India’s only cable-stayed rail bridge. “These engineering marvels are not just infrastructure milestones—they’re symbols of possibility,” he said, urging more tourists to experience these achievements firsthand.
Looking ahead, the Chief Minister emphasized his intent to work closely with TAAI and the broader travel fraternity to rebuild confidence and reposition Jammu and Kashmir as a preferred destination.
Among those present at the event were Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, MLAs Mubarak Gul and Farooq Ahmed Shah, senior officials, tourism stakeholders, and leading hoteliers including Mushtaq Chaya and Mushtaq Burza.
