Calls for Revival of Tourism and Public Trust from Pahalgam

“CM’s cabinet meeting in Pahalgam would signal normalcy; people should visit in large numbers”

Pahalgam, May 27 : Former Chief Minister and senior J&K leader Dr. Farooq Abdullah emphasized the need to overcome fear and rebuild public confidence as a path to reviving tourism in the Valley.

In an exclusive interview with KNS Dr. Abdullah said, “Fear is not the way forward. cabinet meeting being held today in Pahalgam would itself give the impression that things are better now. People should come in large numbers. The Amarnath Yatra is starting soon — and people from the rest of the country must visit in large numbers. Let’s rise above fear, revive tourism, and reconnect with the people.”

Expressing concern over the current condition of Pahalgam, once a major draw for domestic and international tourists, Dr. Abdullah said the sense of alienation and fear must be addressed by reaching out directly to the people. He called on authorities and society alike to make collective efforts to restore trust and activity in the tourism sector.

He recalled a moving moment from the past during General Krishna Rao’s governorship, when despite the absence of an elected government and amid heavy rainfall, locals in Pahalgam welcomed and protected pilgrims during the Aman Yatra. “They opened their homes, gave shelter and fresh clothes. Not a single death occurred. That is the love the people of this land gave to the rest of the nation. The nation must remember that,” he said .