Srinagar, Feb 17 : Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday welcomed the reopening of 11 tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir, saying it would provide relief to communities affected by months of closure.
Omar said he had requested the Home Minister of Jammu and Kashmir to open the closed areas, noting that places like Yousmarg and Doodhpathri had not been kept shut even in the worst of circumstances. “The Home Minister has now issued the order. People living in these areas have suffered financial losses, and now our tourism season is starting. I hope visitors will go and take advantage of the beauty of these places,” he said.
The Chief Minister also criticised the BJP over what he called a gap between its words and actions. Referring to a 2021 case involving government land occupation, he alleged that more than 90 per cent of constituency development funds meant for Jammu and Kashmir were spent in Uttar Pradesh.
“When they talk about Jammu and Kashmir, they send a man through parliamentary nomination, but funds are spent elsewhere. This shows a difference between what is said and what is done,” he said.
Omar addressed administrative challenges, including a 34 per cent electricity deficit, and said efforts would be made to minimise cuts during city planning and preparation. “The deficit is inherited and will be rectified in the coming years as new projects start. During this holy month, people may face difficulties, but all efforts will be made to manage the situation,” he said.
He also raised concerns about television services and the regularisation of employees, noting that policies must be implemented so that both urban and rural residents have access to services and timely justice.
By combining tourism revival, administrative planning, and accountability for governance, Omar Abdullah outlined his government’s priorities for economic recovery and development in Jammu and Kashmir.
