CM Omar Abdullah to Take Up Closure of Tourist Spots with Centre

 Hemani Kandhari 

Jammu, Feb 5: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that he will take up the issue of closure of several tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir with the Central Government.

Replying to a question during the Assembly session, the Chief Minister said he will raise the matter with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his upcoming visit to Jammu and Kashmir. He agreed that the continued closure of many tourist places is affecting the tourism sector and employment opportunities.

The main question on tourism and employment was raised by MLA Ali Mohammad Sagar. During the discussion, several supplementary questions were asked by different MLAs. MLA Nizamuddin Bhat expressed concern over the closure of many tourist destinations and urged the Chief Minister to take up the issue with the Centre.

In response, Omar Abdullah said that tourism is important for all regions of Jammu and Kashmir and every region has strong potential for tourism promotion. He said the government wants balanced tourism development across Jammu, Kashmir, and other areas.

Following a terror attack in Baisaran area of Pahalgam on April 22, 2025, more than 48 tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir were closed due to security reasons. These included many popular tourist places in Jammu and Kashmir. While 16 tourist spots were reopened in June 2025, many destinations, especially in the Kashmir region, are still closed.

The Chief Minister assured the House that the government is serious about the issue and will take up the issue with the Central Government to ensure the reopening of tourist places while keeping security concerns in mind.