Srinagar, June 5: Hopes have rekindled for tourism revival, thanks to the Kashmir train.
Tourism stakeholders are hoping that the train to Kashmir will instill much-needed confidence among tourists to visit the valley again.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the much-anticipated Vande Bharat train to Kashmir on June 6. The move is being widely viewed as a symbolic step toward normalcy and a potential catalyst for reviving tourism in the Valley.
“Post-Pahalgam attack, tourism came to a complete standstill. Bookings were cancelled en masse, and for nearly a month, the sector was in shock. Now that tourist activity has resumed, albeit at a minimal level, we are hopeful the Vande Bharat train will give tourism the much-needed push,” said Farooq Ahmad Kuthoo, a prominent travel agent based in Srinagar. “
Kuthoo said the new train service is expected to reduce travel costs for visitors, making Kashmir tour packages more affordable and accessible.
He added that recent inquiries, particularly from states like Maharashtra and West Bengal, suggest a growing interest in visiting Kashmir again.
“The train signifies a return to normalcy. Tourists look at such developments as a reassurance. If all goes well, we will see a sharp rise in bookings. We hope for a good flow of tourists from next month,” he said.
Another travel agent, Muzzamil Rashid, echoed the sentiment and expressed hope that Prime Minister Modi will use the train’s inauguration as an opportunity to deliver a strong promotional message for Kashmir tourism.
“A message from the Prime Minister will go a long way in restoring confidence among travellers. We are counting on that,” he said.
Tourism, one of the vital contributors to the local economy, had shown promising growth earlier this year before being derailed by the Pahalgam attack.
The following escalation in India and Pakistan relations further brought down the tour bookings to Kashmir, and the tourists got diverted to other regions, including Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Ooty, and other destinations.
Now with the launch of the Vande Bharat Express, Kashmir’s tourism industry sees a renewed chance to get back on track.