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Tourism – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah indicated on Thursday that authorities are considering reopening several tourist locations that were shut down following last year’s deadly attack in Pahalgam. Addressing members of the Legislative Assembly in Jammu, Abdullah stated that improving security conditions have prompted discussions about restoring access to these destinations, which were closed as a precautionary measure after the April 2025 incident.

Government Reviewing Security Conditions for Reopening

Speaking during the Assembly session, Abdullah noted that a significant number of popular tourist areas across the Union Territory remain inaccessible due to the aftermath of the attack. He said the administration believes the time is approaching to allow visitors to return to these sites, provided security agencies are satisfied with the situation on the ground.

The Chief Minister confirmed that the regional government is in communication with the central administration regarding the matter. He added that he intends to raise the issue directly with the Union Home Minister during the latter’s scheduled visit to Jammu and Kashmir. According to Abdullah, coordination between local and central authorities will play a crucial role in determining the timeline for reopening restricted zones.

Background of the Pahalgam Attack and Safety Measures

The restrictions were first introduced following the terror strike at Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam on April 22, 2025. The attack resulted in the deaths of 25 tourists along with a local pony handler, making it one of the most severe incidents targeting visitors in recent years. In response, authorities temporarily shut down 48 tourist destinations throughout the Kashmir Valley to conduct comprehensive security assessments.

Officials described the closures as a preventive step designed to safeguard visitors while security agencies reviewed vulnerabilities. Over the months that followed, several locations were gradually reopened after inspections and clearance from law enforcement agencies. However, many destinations continue to remain closed as authorities maintain a cautious approach.

Tourism Sector Urges Full Restoration of Visitor Access

Representatives from the tourism industry have repeatedly called for the reopening of all restricted sites. Stakeholders argue that continued closure of well-known destinations has affected travel bookings and local livelihoods that depend heavily on visitor traffic. Industry members believe that restoring access would help rebuild traveler confidence and stimulate economic activity in the region.

Local business owners, tour operators, and hospitality providers have highlighted that tourism plays a vital role in supporting thousands of families across Jammu and Kashmir. They maintain that reopening these destinations, with adequate safety measures, could accelerate recovery in the travel sector.

Continued Restrictions in High-Altitude and Forest Regions

Despite improvements in the overall security environment, authorities have recently imposed additional restrictions in certain high-altitude and forest areas of south and north Kashmir. Locations including Margan Top, Chauhar Nag, Sinthan Top, and upper forest zones near Tangmarg have been placed under strict control.

Officials have banned trekking, hiking, camping, and similar outdoor activities in these regions. Residents have been instructed to notify police before entering these areas, while tourists from outside the region have been barred entirely from accessing upper forest zones. Authorities cited ongoing security operations and movement of forces as the primary reason for these measures.

Security Operations Continue in Remote Mountain Zones

Security forces have been conducting extensive winter operations across remote mountainous areas in the Jammu region. Intelligence inputs suggested that militants might be using natural caves and dense forests as hideouts, prompting a large-scale search effort in difficult terrain.

Officials stated that these operations are ongoing and form part of broader counter-insurgency measures aimed at ensuring long-term safety. The government has emphasized that decisions regarding reopening tourist destinations will depend on security evaluations and risk assessments conducted by law enforcement agencies.

While discussions continue between regional and national authorities, officials have indicated that any relaxation of restrictions will be implemented gradually, prioritizing visitor safety and stability in the region’s tourism environment.