J&K Now Open for Tourists
After the abrogation of Article 370, the Indian government has finally allowed tourists to visit J&K. This decision will help restore normalcy in the valley and give a boost to the local economy.
In early August, all tourists of J&K and the pilgrims of yearly Amarnath Yatra, were ordered to leave the state.J&K Governor Satya Pal Malik, said that they did took this decision because the Army had warned about attacks by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists.But the real reason was that the government wanted to prepare for the removal of Article 370 and conversion of J&K into a UT.For the last two months there has been heavy security in J&K. All types of communications are shut and people were not allowed to move freely. Thousands of military personnel were sent to J&K to manage the situation. Tourists were not allowed to visit either.
Tourism is very important for J&K and their economy depends on it. The summer months are the peak tourist season but most of the hotels and resorts were empty. After the Pulwama attacks, tourism became slow again but during May-June the tourism started because of the Amarnath Yatra. Now again the tourism has reduced. One travel agent said during winters not many visit and now the summers were wasted. The problem has been made worse because there was no internet. And hotels could not communicate with people who want to make bookings. Now, in an order dated October 9, the government said restrictions have been lifted, and that the tourists are free to visit.
An official of the National Conference party said that what is the use of allowing tourists if they can not roam freely. Plus mobile services and the internet have not started. This is why Many tourists will not come to J&K.
Many businesses have shut down due to these problems and it will be difficult for the situation to go back to normal.
