Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Announces Memorial for Pahalgam Terror Attack Victims

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has declared plans for a memorial at Baisaran in Pahalgam. This will honour the 26 victims of last month's terror attack. The government aims to create a memorial that is both grand and respectful. "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," said Abdullah.

During a meeting with travel and tour operators in Pahalgam, Abdullah highlighted the significance of reviving tourism in the region. He expressed gratitude to those who supported tourism during challenging times. "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," he stated.

Tourism Revival Efforts

The chief minister recalled how tourism began to flourish again in the early 1990s with visitors from Mumbai and Gujarat. These groups helped boost tourism until the recent tragic events on April 22. "No matter how strongly we condemn what happened that day, it will never be enough. We lack words to comfort the families of those 26 victims. We can only bow our heads in their memory," he remarked.

Abdullah acknowledged security challenges but stressed the need for strict measures to prevent future incidents. "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 asserted.

Reopening Tourist Destinations

The chief minister urged transparency when communicating with tourists about reopening destinations after the Baisaran incident. He advised focusing on open attractions rather than closed ones. "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 said.

Abdullah visited Betaab Valley to assess conditions and build confidence among tourists. He noted that not all destinations would reopen immediately but assured that some would gradually become accessible. He also promised tour operators would be consulted throughout this process.

Focus on Domestic Tourism

Abdullah emphasised that international tourists typically follow domestic recovery signs. "The first sign of normalcy is when school children and domestic tourists begin visiting picnic spots again," he explained. He believes focusing on domestic tourism will create momentum for international bookings.

The chief minister acknowledged existing shortcomings and promised they would be addressed moving forward. "We are aware of the gaps and we will act on them," he assured.

Local Engagement and Initiatives

Abdullah met with local delegations led by Pahalgam MLA to discuss local issues and aspirations. He praised locals for their support during the recent tragedy, stating their assistance was exemplary.

The chief minister also visited Nunwan Base Camp to review preparations for the Amarnath Yatra, stressing coordination's importance for pilgrims' safety and comfort.

Following his visit to Betaab Valley, Abdullah embarked on an impromptu cycling tour from a local hotel to Nunwan Base Camp and back. This initiative aimed to promote sustainable tourism efforts by the Tourism Department, with his sons Zahir and Zamir accompanying him.

With inputs from PTI