Pahalgam, August 6 (KNS) : Apni Party General Secretary and former Pahalgam MLA Rafi Ahmed Mir held an important meeting with local stakeholders in Pahalgam on Thursday to discuss the growing economic difficulties facing the tourism stakeholders in Pahalgam.

The meeting was attended by ponywalas, taxi union members, and tourism service providers, who expressed concern over the worsening situation caused by the suspension of the Amarnath Yatra and the continued closure of Baisaran Valley.

Participants said the closure of major tourist attractions has badly affected the tourism-based economy, leaving thousands of families without a stable source of income during what is usually the busiest season of the year.

Speaking at the meeting, Mir urged the government to take a compassionate approach toward the problems faced by local people, whose livelihood is affiliated with tourism sector.

He said government policies should not only focus on regulations but also protect the livelihoods of those who depend on tourism.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He appealed to the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to launch an outreach programme to meet the people of Pahalgam and assess their need for financial and other relief.

Mir also urged the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to intervene ensuring the reopening of the Baisaran at the earliest, saying it would provide a much-needed boost to the local economy.

"Pahalgam's tourism stakeholders, including ponywalas, drivers, and small business owners, are going through severe financial hardship," Mir said.

He added, "Reopening tourist destinations like Baisaran under proper guidelines is essential to restore confidence among visitors and help people earn their livelihood again."

The meeting concluded with all stakeholder groups pledging to continue pressing the administration for action until tourism activities return to normal in Pahalgam.(KNS)