Srinagar, July 4 (KNS) ; The Nigeen Tourist Traders Association (NTTA) has wholeheartedly welcomed the decision to withdraw the proposed weekly runway closure at Srinagar International Airport and continue essential runway maintenance during night hours, ensuring uninterrupted air connectivity to Jammu & Kashmir.
NTTA President Manzoor Wangnoo expressed his sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha Ji, Hon’ble Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Ji, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the Ministry of Defence, the Airports Authority of India, and the Srinagar Airport authorities for their timely intervention and coordinated efforts in addressing the genuine concerns of the tourism, trade and business community.
He also appreciated the constructive role played by the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), the Chamber of Commerce & Industry Kashmir (CCIK), tourism associations and other stakeholders whose collective voice helped ensure that the concerns of the people of Jammu & Kashmir were heard.
Wangnoo said that uninterrupted air connectivity is the lifeline of Jammu & Kashmir. It is indispensable not only for tourism but also for trade, handicrafts, horticulture exports, healthcare, education, business travellers, students and patients seeking specialised medical treatment outside the Union Territory.
He observed that the revised arrangement demonstrates how meaningful consultation and constructive dialogue can lead to decisions that uphold operational safety while safeguarding the livelihoods of thousands of families directly and indirectly dependent on tourism and allied sectors.
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“Tourism is the backbone of Jammu & Kashmir’s economy and a source of livelihood for countless families. We sincerely appreciate every institution and every leader who rose above differences and worked collectively in the larger public interest. This timely decision has brought immense relief to the tourism fraternity, strengthened public confidence and sent a positive message to visitors planning to experience the unmatched beauty and hospitality of Kashmir,” Wangnoo said.
The NTTA President expressed hope that all future infrastructure and policy decisions having an impact on tourism and trade would continue to be taken in close consultation with stakeholders, ensuring that development, public convenience and economic growth move forward together.
Reaffirming NTTA’s unwavering commitment to promoting Kashmir as a safe, sustainable and world-class tourist destination, Wangnoo said the Association would continue to work closely with all stakeholders in strengthening the tourism sector and contributing to the overall economic prosperity of Jammu & Kashmir. (KNS)