This refers to tourism revival in the valley. The collapse of tourism in 90s resulted in large scale joblessness. However, as soon as the political affairs in the State of Jammu & Kashmir became a little favorable in early 2004, the hoteliers, guest house owners and transport operators jointly started a successful massive promotional campaign throughout the country. A positive and favorable situation made hoteliers, houseboat owners and taxi operators to go for reinvestment and to restart their ventures from their own sources and private borrowings.
Now, it is need of the hour that Government should come with comprehensive policy and packages for the upgradation of existing tourism infrastructure of hotels and guest houses and road transportation. This will facilitate increased tourist arrival. Moreover, the government should provide them modern immunities and facilities. It will also have a good impact on competition with neighboring states in the tourism sector. And at the same time our incoming tourists will be able to enjoy better stay in the valley.
Hotels and guest houses, which are banned from undertaking repairs and renovations at places like Pahalgam, and Boulevard Srinagar etc, should be considered by government on priority for withdrawing such bans. This will help the hoteliers to undertake necessary repairs and renovations on their properties. Successful tourism would mean successful generation of employment.

Mir Habibullah
Ex- President, Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Association

Lastupdate on : Tue, 1 May 2012 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Tue, 1 May 2012 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Wed, 2 May 2012 00:00:00 IST