Stakeholders pin hopes on Diwali holidays amid deep post-attack slump
Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar,(DD) Once symbols of romance, poetry, and postcard-perfect holidays, the iconic houseboats of Dal and Nigeen lakes now sit eerily still — their carved wooden frames untouched, their decks quiet, and their rooms without guests. These empty floating marvels are fast becoming the most visible sign of the grim state of tourism in Kashmir.
Months after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, the Valley’s tourism sector continues to reel under fear and cancellations, despite widespread promotional campaigns in other parts of the country.
“Tourism is at an all-time low. The charm of the houseboat is fading, not because it’s lost its beauty, but because travellers are still afraid,” said a houseboat owner near Nehru Park. “We had hoped that summer would bring life back, but this has been one of the dullest seasons in years.”
To reverse the downturn, the J&K Tourism Department, in collaboration with local stakeholders, held major tourism promotion campaigns in Ahmedabad and Kolkata. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah personally participated in the roadshows, appealing to travellers to once again consider Kashmir as their destination.
But the results, so far, have been underwhelming.
Ibrahim Siyah, President of the Travel Agents Society of Kashmir (TASK), acknowledges the challenge: “There’s support from outside, but fear remains. All eyes are on Diwali holidays in September now — that’s our next big hope.”
Before the Pahalgam attack, Kashmir had recorded a promising start to the year, with strong numbers during the winter and early spring seasons. But since April, bookings have nosedived. From idle taxis to shuttered souvenir shops, the ripple effect has been felt across the tourism chain.
Locals fear that if confidence isn’t restored soon, livelihoods may face long-term damage. Many small houseboat operators are already dipping into savings to keep afloat.
As the Valley prepares for the autumn season, with its signature golden chinars and crisp weather, tourism players are united in their plea: let Kashmir not be remembered for violence, but for its unmatched beauty and hospitality(DD)