Sarvjeet Singh /Diplomat Special Correspondent
Jammu,(DD): The recent militant attack in Pahalgam, which claimed at least 26 lives, has sent shockwaves through Jammu’s business community. Local traders and entrepreneurs report a significant downturn in tourism, leading to substantial financial losses across various sectors.
Davinder Thappa, owner of a once-thriving restaurant in Below Gumat, shared his plight:
“Before the attack, I had no place to sit in my restaurant. Now I get only a few customers. There is a loss of around Rs 3,000 every day. Earlier, I used to earn between Rs 8,000 to Rs 12,000 daily.”
Thappa’s experience mirrors that of many in the region. The hospitality sector, in particular, has been hit hard. Pawan Gupta, President of the Hotel and Lodges Association Jammu, noted that hotel bookings have plummeted to just 10% occupancy.
“The business related to the tourism sector—like the hotel industry, travel services, and dry fruit shopkeepers—has sunk in Jammu,” he said.
The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) Jammu has also expressed deep concern over the economic ramifications of the attack. Arun Gupta, President of CCI Jammu, emphasized the broader impact on the region’s economy:
“The current situation has shattered business activity in the region. It is a natural phenomenon that Jammu traders suffer losses because of tension in the Kashmir Valley.”
The attack has led to mass cancellations of travel plans, with airlines operating additional flights to accommodate the exodus of tourists. The Ministry of Civil Aviation issued advisories to airlines to prevent surge pricing and ensure sufficient capacity for departing travelers.
Business leaders are calling for immediate government intervention to stabilize the situation and support affected industries. Suggestions include financial relief packages, infrastructure development, and enhanced security measures to restore confidence among tourists and investors alike.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, the resilience of Jammu’s business community is being tested. Stakeholders emphasize the urgent need for collaborative efforts between the government and private sector to revive the economy and ensure long-term stability.(DD)
