The Government of Jammu Kashmir on Tuesday has ordered for reopening of the state tourism from Tuesday followed by some new protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) for the tourists.
A set of proper guidelines have been set by the the authorities for the tourists.
Authoroties have said that only air travelers will be allowed to enter the state. Upon arrival all the tourists will have to go through a covid-19 test, which will be compulsory.
The authorities have also advised the tourists to pre-book hotels and taxis in advance. All the tourists must have their return ticked too.
The tourist players, houseboat owners, boat men and tour operators have welcomed this step taken by the authoroties to reopen the state tourism.
Since August last year the tourism has taken a back seat after the authorities scraped the article 370, At that time all the tourists who were present in the region were advised to leave the state.
One boat man said that, “We would be more than happy if Amarnath Yatra starts and pilgrims are allowed to visit the tourist spots too.” Another boat man, Ali Mohammad said, “It will be great for us if tourists start visiting here. We have suffered a lot.”
Taxi operator Adil Ahmad said, “It’s very good step. It will boost trade in Kashmir and people will benefit.”
This decision of reopening the state tourism was taken by the Jammu Kashmir government during a high-level meeting that was held a few days ago.
There will be a partial opening of the tourism sector for visitors from outside J&K, and for now, has been limited to tourists arriving by air only.
The official release read, “In the view of the COVID-19 related measures, it is felt imperative to put in place a protocol to be followed by the tourists as well the persons/authorities engaged in the hospitality sector.”