Bandipora, Feb 17 (KNS) 

After nearly ten months of closure, Wular Lake has finally reopened to tourists, bringing renewed hope to hundreds of families dependent on tourism for their livelihood.

 

The reopening follows an announcement by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who stated that 14 tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir would be reopened in a phased manner. The sites had been shut for security and administrative reasons in the aftermath of last year’s Pahalgam attack, which severely impacted tourist inflow and local economic activity.

 

Residents around Wular Lake welcomed the move, expressing optimism that tourism-related activities would now resume after months of financial hardship. Communities in the surrounding villages largely depend on visitors for income generated through shikara rides, food stalls, handicrafts, and guiding services.

 

Fayaz Ahmad, a shikara operator, said the decision has brought much-needed relief. “For almost a year we had no tourists and no steady income. If visitors return, we can finally support our families again,” he said.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

Manzoor Ahmad, who runs a small tea stall along the lakeshore, described tourism as the backbone of the local economy. “When the lake was closed, our earnings stopped overnight. Reopening it means business will restart not just for me but for many others,” he said.

 

Rukhsana Bano, a visitor from Bandipora, said the reopening was encouraging for both tourists and locals. “Places like Wular should remain accessible. Tourism helps local youth find employment and keeps these destinations vibrant,” she remarked.

 

Several residents also urged authorities to focus on improving road connectivity and enhancing basic facilities in villages around the lake. They believe Wular Lake holds immense untapped tourism potential and, with proper infrastructure development, could emerge as one of the leading attractions in the region.

 

With the reopening now underway, locals are hopeful that the return of tourists will not only revive livelihoods but also restore economic stability in the lake’s surrounding communities. (KNS)