Srinagar, June 26 (KNS): The Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA) on Thursday extended a warm welcome to the commencement of the annual Amarnath Yatra, which is scheduled to begin from July 3.
In a statement issued to the press, Aijaz Shahdhar, President of KTA, said that the people of Kashmir have always upheld the centuries-old tradition of communal harmony and brotherhood. "The Amarnath Yatra is a symbol of our composite culture, and we welcome the pilgrims with open hearts, as we have done for decades," Shahdhar said.
He further added that this year’s yatra assumes added significance as it is expected to revive economic activity in the Valley, especially in the wake of the recent setback following the April incident in Pahalgam.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel"Tourism and pilgrim flow are vital for the livelihood of thousands of people associated with the hospitality, transport, trade and allied sectors," he noted.
The KTA also urged the administration to ensure that all necessary arrangements are put in place for the smooth conduct of the yatra, including adequate security, medical facilities, and road connectivity, so that the pilgrimage proceeds in a safe and peaceful manner.
"We are hopeful that this year’s yatra will be successful and will help restore confidence and normalcy in the region,” Shahdhar said.