CM announces a memorial for Baisaran victims

*Chairs interactive session with tour operators from across country

Excelsior Correspondent

PAHALGAM, May 27: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today announced to establish a memorial in memory of the 26 victims of last month’s tragic terror attack at Baisaran near Pahalgam.

Click here to watch video
“We have been discussing this from day one – a memorial will be set up in Baisaran for the 26 innocent lives lost, as a lasting tribute and a reminder that they will never be forgotten,” the Chief Minister said.
Addressing a gathering of travel & tour operators from across the country, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of reviving tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. “In today’s cabinet meeting, held here in Pahalgam, the Public Works Department was authorized to grant in-principle approval for this memorial,” he announced.
He added that suggestions would be sought to ensure that the memorial is not only magnificent but also dignified and respectful.
Extending heartfelt gratitude to the visiting tour operators, the Chief Minister said, “I thank each one of you for coming to Pahalgam and supporting the revival of tourism. I recognize many of you as those who reignited tourism in the Valley during the most challenging times – when even the locals feared venturing out.”
While acknowledging security challenges, Omar Abdullah stressed the need for strict measures. “Although we do not fully control the security apparatus, I believe what happened should never have happened. And we must do everything possible to ensure it never happens again, he added”
On the reopening of tourist destinations post-Baisaran incident, he urged for transparency and openness in communicating with tourists. “Let’s not focus on what’s closed, but on what’s open. I believe it’s better to speak the truth rather than have tourists feel misled, he added”
The Chief Minister assured tour operators that they would be consulted throughout this process. “Together with the administration, we will ensure destinations are reopened responsibly, in a timely manner, he added”
On attracting international tourists, the CM said, “In our experience, international guests arrive after domestic tourism shows signs of recovery. The first sign of normalcy is when school children and domestic tourists begin visiting picnic spots again. Once this wave is visible, international bookings will follow. While we must continue to promote globally, I believe a strong focus on domestic tourism will build the right momentum.”
Tour operators who interacted with the Chief Minister represented a cross-section of travel & operators and bodies such as Raja Rani Travels, Pooja Travels, Heena Travels, Veena World, Off Beat Destinations, KK Tours, Jai Mata Di Travels, Arihant Travels, Madhuchanda Travels, TAFI, Kass Travels, ADTOI, Beckon Tours Pvt Ltd, Trans Global Travels, SHR Harshil Travels (representing OTOAI), Golden Tours (under ETAA), Ajay Modi Travels (Gujarat), Travel Munk (Jain Travel Associations), Thomas Cook, Tamarind, Kraft Vacations, and Travel Lounge.
Delegates from national print and electronic media also interacted with the CM, alongside local tour operators, hoteliers, travel and tourism stakeholders.
Present during the session were former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, MLAs from Pahalgam and Bijbehara, Director Tourism, MD JKTDC, and other senior officials.
He also visited Nunwan Base Camp to review preparations for the Amarnath Yatra, interacted with officials on the ground, and emphasized the importance of coordination for ensuring pilgrims’ safety and comfort.
The visit to Betaab Valley was followed by an impromptu cycling tour by the Chief Minister from a local hotel to Nunwan Base Camp and back, to promote new initiatives taken by Tourism Department towards sustainable tourism and eco-tourism, a message strongly advocated by CM Omar Abdullah who also holds the portfolio of Minister for Tourism in J&K.

The post CM announces a memorial for Baisaran victims appeared first on Daily Excelsior.

News