Ex MLA Pahalgam Rafi Ahmed Mir Urges Relief for Pahalgam Tourism Sector, Seeks Reopening of Baisaran Valley
Pahalgam: Apni Party General Secretary and Ex MLA Pahalgam Rafi Ahmed Mir on Thursday held a meeting with local tourism stakeholders to discuss the growing economic difficulties facing people whose livelihoods depend on tourism in the famous hill resort.
The meeting was attended by ponywalas, taxi union members and tourism service providers, who expressed concern over the financial losses caused by the suspension of the Amarnath Yatra and the continued closure of Baisaran Valley. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Tourism Stakeholders Voice Concerns
Participants said the closure of key tourist attractions has severely affected the local economy, leaving thousands of families without a steady source of income during what is normally the busiest tourism season.
They urged the administration to take immediate steps to revive tourism activities and support those affected by the downturn.
Rafi Ahmed Mir Calls for Government Support
Addressing the gathering, Rafi Ahmed Mir appealed to the government to adopt a compassionate approach towards the problems faced by local residents whose livelihoods are linked to the tourism sector.
He said government policies should not only focus on regulations but also ensure the protection of jobs and businesses that depend on tourism.
“Pahalgam’s tourism stakeholders, including ponywalas, drivers and small business owners, are going through severe financial hardship,” Mir said.
Appeal to Chief Minister and Lieutenant Governor
Mir urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to launch an outreach programme in Pahalgam to interact with local residents and assess their need for financial assistance and other relief measures.
He also appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to intervene and facilitate the reopening of Baisaran Valley at the earliest.
According to Mir, reopening the tourist destination under appropriate safety guidelines would help restore visitor confidence and provide a much-needed boost to the local economy.
“Reopening tourist destinations like Baisaran under proper guidelines is essential to restore confidence among visitors and help people earn their livelihood again,” he said.
Stakeholders Seek Early Revival of Tourism
The meeting concluded with representatives of various stakeholder groups pledging to continue pressing the administration for timely action until tourism activities return to normal in Pahalgam.
They expressed hope that the government would take concrete steps to support affected families and revive one of Kashmir’s most important tourism destinations.
