Former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah voiced strong disapproval on Thursday, September 18, 2025, regarding the prolonged closure of numerous prominent tourist locations in the Kashmir Valley. He highlighted that these sites have remained inaccessible for six months following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Gulmarg Convention Centre in Baramulla district, Mr. Abdullah pointed out that even a major destination like Gulmarg is half-shuttered to visitors. He added that nearby Drung in Tangmarg is also off-limits. ‘This situation severely harms Jammu & Kashmir’s vital tourism sector,’ he stated, urging security officials to gradually reopen these restricted areas.
Abdullah further highlighted the closure of other well-known spots such as Betaab Valley and Aru Valley in Pahalgam. He lamented the Pahalgam incident, stating, ‘While actions have been taken since then, our efforts to promote tourism will remain fruitless if these destinations stay closed. There’s no sense in spending resources on promotion if tourists can’t actually visit.’
A total of 48 tourist spots across Jammu & Kashmir were initially sealed following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which tragically claimed 26 civilian lives. In June, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, overseeing security, sanctioned the reopening of 16 of these locations – eight each in the Jammu and Kashmir regions – citing an improved security environment.
Despite the partial reopening, several beloved destinations, including Doodhpathri and Aharbal, remain inaccessible, severely affecting the livelihoods of countless individuals reliant on the tourism industry. Abdullah argued, ‘If these sites are to remain closed, then compensation must be provided for the economic hardships endured by the local population.’
Abdullah also criticized the central government’s contradictory stance: while they project an image of normalcy in Kashmir to the international community, the continued closures undermine confidence in regional tourism. ‘You cannot simultaneously close our beautiful spots and expect tourism to flourish,’ he emphasized.
During his address at the 17th Annual General Meeting of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir, Mr. Abdullah pledged to raise these critical issues with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. He promised to advocate for the complete reopening of all remaining closed tourist destinations in Kashmir.
He concluded by stating, ‘Even during Kashmir’s most challenging periods, these areas were never kept shut. I will personally appeal to the Home Minister, as their reopening is essential to restore confidence and draw more visitors back to our region.’