The Doda police have announced a heightened focus on ensuring the safety and security of tourists visiting the Bhaderwah valley, a popular high-altitude destination in Jammu and Kashmir. Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Doda, Kartik Shrotriya, emphasized that maintaining peace, communal harmony, and providing a secure environment for tourists are top priorities. Shrotriya recently assumed the role of district police chief following an administrative reshuffle.
The SSP underscored the importance of tourism for the region’s economy, stating that ensuring the safety of visitors is crucial for sustaining hospitality and promoting economic growth. Drawing from his experience in Anantnag, where he served as Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) shortly after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Shrotriya highlighted the devastating impact that security threats can have on local livelihoods dependent on tourism. The Pahalgam attack, which occurred in May of this year, resulted in significant disruption to the tourism sector, impacting the economic well-being of the local community.
Shrotriya has set specific targets for Bhaderwah, prioritizing tourist security, promoting social coordination among locals, and maintaining communal harmony. He emphasized that these objectives must be upheld to prevent situations similar to the one witnessed in Anantnag. The SSP appealed to the local community to help make Bhaderwah valley an attractive and safe destination for tourists. He urged residents to share information and provide truthful opinions regarding unscrupulous and anti-national elements, asserting that such cooperation is essential for safeguarding the tourism industry and ensuring its continued growth.
Focusing on creating a terror-free environment, Shrotriya stressed that his efforts would concentrate on expanding business opportunities related to tourism. He reiterated the need for public support and collaboration in achieving this goal. He also commented on the security arrangements in place for high-altitude tourist locations within the Bhaderwah valley. The SSP stated that providing security for tourists, particularly in these areas, is an ongoing process. He noted that the police, along with the civil administration and other security forces, regularly coordinate to assess and improve security measures, ensuring that tourists can safely enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
Bhaderwah, often referred to as ‘Mini Kashmir’ due to its picturesque landscapes and lush greenery, has emerged as a prominent tourist destination in the Jammu region. The valley offers a diverse range of attractions, including meadows, forests, and snow-capped peaks. Recent years have witnessed a surge in tourist footfall, contributing significantly to the local economy. The administration has undertaken several initiatives to promote tourism, including infrastructure upgrades, development of new tourist spots, and promotion campaigns. These efforts aim to attract a greater number of visitors and establish Bhaderwah as a leading tourist destination in Jammu and Kashmir.
The focus on tourism in Jammu and Kashmir aligns with broader governmental efforts to boost the region’s economy and generate employment opportunities. Tourism plays a pivotal role in the economic ecosystem of the Union Territory, with numerous families directly and indirectly dependent on the sector for their livelihoods. The government has implemented policies to support tourism-related businesses, provide financial assistance to tourism operators, and develop tourism infrastructure across the region. These initiatives aim to create a conducive environment for tourism to flourish and contribute to the overall economic prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir.
The security situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains a key concern for the government and security agencies. While there has been a notable improvement in the overall security landscape, sporadic incidents of violence and infiltration attempts continue to pose challenges. Security forces maintain a high level of vigilance and are actively engaged in counter-terrorism operations to neutralize threats and maintain peace. The government has also emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining law and order and has encouraged citizens to cooperate with security agencies in preventing untoward incidents. The multi-pronged approach, combining security measures with community engagement, aims to create a secure and stable environment conducive to economic growth and development.
Recent data indicates an increase in tourist arrivals in Jammu and Kashmir compared to previous years. The improved security situation, coupled with promotional efforts, has contributed to increased confidence among tourists. Destinations like Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Vaishno Devi continue to attract a significant number of visitors. The government is also focusing on promoting lesser-known destinations, such as Bhaderwah and Kishtwar, to diversify the tourism landscape and provide new experiences for travelers. The administration organizes various festivals and events to showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage and promote tourism. These festivals attract tourists from across the country and contribute to the vibrancy of the local economy.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
