Advocates revival of tourism, pilgrimage: Raman Suri calls for equal focus on Jammu division as gateway to J&K UT

JAMMU: In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam and ongoing security operations like Operation Sindoor, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Executive Member Raman Suri has called for immediate and robust measures to revive tourism and pilgrimage in the Jammu division, emphasizing its critical role as the gateway to the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory (UT). Suri expressed deep concern over the declining tourist footfall in Jammu, which he noted has been equally affected by the security situation as the Kashmir Valley, yet receives inadequate attention from the administration.

“The Jammu division, with its serene landscapes, pleasant summer climate, and sacred pilgrimage sites, is the gateway to Jammu and Kashmir. However, the ripple effects of the Pahalgam terror attack and security operations have severely impacted tourism and pilgrimage in Jammu as well,” said Suri. “While the UT government is actively addressing tourism in Kashmir, Jammu seems to be overlooked. This selective approach must end, and the administration, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who oversees the tourism department, must take concrete steps to restore confidence and promote Jammu as a vibrant tourist destination.”

Raman Suri highlighted the significant decline in pilgrim visits to revered sites like Mata Vaishno Devi, with upcoming pilgrimages such as the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra and Machail Mata Yatra also at risk due to waning confidence among tourists and pilgrims. “Pilgrimage tourism is the backbone of Jammu’s economy, and any decline directly affects livelihoods. The Chief Minister must prioritize restoring the confidence of pilgrims and tourists by ensuring safety and promoting Jammu’s unique offerings,” he urged.

Drawing attention to the pleasant summer weather in Jammu, Suri called for proactive measures to market the region’s tourist spots, including Patnitop, Sanasar, Bhaderwah, and Kishtwar, which offer respite from the heat and unparalleled natural beauty. “Jammu’s tourism potential is immense, yet nothing significant seems to be happening at the administrative level to capitalize on it. The government must launch targeted campaigns to attract tourists to these destinations, ensuring they feel safe and welcomed,” he added.

Reflecting on the broader tourism scenario, Suri acknowledged the severe impact of the Pahalgam terror attack on Kashmir’s tourism sector, which has historically faced disruptions due to violent protests and curfews in 2008, 2010, and 2016. “Kashmir’s economy, heavily reliant on tourism, has repeatedly suffered setbacks, and the current situation is no different. The industry is now looking to the government for a comprehensive revival package,” he noted. However, he stressed that Jammu’s tourism sector, equally affected, deserves similar attention and support. “The government cannot afford to be selective. Both divisions must be prioritized to ensure the overall economic stability of the Union Territory,” Suri emphasized.

Raman Suri urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to adopt a balanced approach, advocating for equal focus on Jammu and Kashmir to rebuild trust among tourists and pilgrims. He called for enhanced security measures, infrastructure development, and promotional campaigns to showcase Jammu’s tourism potential. “The people of Jammu and those associated with the tourism sector are waiting for decisive action. The Chief Minister must lead with vision and ensure that Jammu is not sidelined in the Union Territory’s tourism narrative,” he asserted.