Srinagar, Nov 29 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said snowfall would be the main factor driving tourist footfall in the Valley this winter, expressing hope for improved tourism during the festive season.
Addressing the media, as per KNS, the Chief Minister said November had remained dry so far, but the administration is optimistic that December snowfall will enhance tourist activity in key destinations including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, and Srinagar.
“The sooner the snow falls, the sooner our winter tourism season will start,” he said, adding that preparations for promotion and marketing of the sector have already been completed.
Abdullah noted that despite recent security incidents, tourists continue to visit Pahalgam and other destinations, though numbers are yet to reach the desired levels.
He cited the success of the Chrysanthemum Garden initiative, which had boosted tourism in previous years, as an example of potential growth once snowfall begins.
The Chief Minister also mentioned ongoing discussions with the World Bank regarding formal agreements for tourism development projects. While details of nine proposed destinations and projects are pending approval, Abdullah expressed optimism about their implementation.
He hopes that snowfall, along with upcoming Christmas and New Year holidays, will encourage more tourists to visit the Valley, contributing to the revival of the local tourism industry.(KNS)
