Srinagar, Feb 16 (KNS): The Jammu and Kashmir administration has ordered the reopening of several tourist destinations across the Union Territory following a comprehensive security review, weeks after legislator Nizamuddin Bhat raised the matter in the Legislative Assembly and took it up with the Lieutenant Governor.
Officials said the decision came after MLA Bhat, representing the Bandipora constituency, submitted a formal representation to LG Manoj Sinha, urging immediate intervention to restore public access to key sites that had remained closed for an extended period.
According to an official communication, the destinations cleared for reopening in the Kashmir Valley include Yousmarg and Doodhpathri in Budgam, Dandipora Park in Kokernag, Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan and Padpawan in Shopian, and Astanpora and the Tulip Garden in Srinagar.
In the Bandipora district, which falls under Bhat's constituency, the Thajwas Glacier, Hung Park, Wullar Watlab, Athwatoo, and the Gurez Valley have been made accessible to tourists and locals alike.
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In the Jammu region, the administration has reopened Devi Pindi in Reasi, Mahu Mangat in Ramban, and Mughal Maidan in Kishtwar.
Welcoming the decision, Bhat termed it a significant step toward revitalising the tourism sector and strengthening the local economy. He said that the move would help restore confidence among visitors while generating employment opportunities for those dependent on the tourism industry.
"The reopening will provide much-needed relief to countless families whose livelihoods are intertwined with the sector," Bhat said, while appreciating the administration's responsiveness to public demands. (KNS)