Stating that tourism sector is gone from bad to worse, Jammu and Kashmir Hoteliers Club today said that there is less than 5 percent occupancy in Kashmir hotels which is a cause of concern for the hospitality sector.
A press statement issued by the JKHC reads that the executive committee meeting was held under the chairmanship of Mushtaq Ahmad Chaya in which all the members of J&K Hoteliers Club along with its Chapter Presidents and Secretaries from Sonmarg, Gulmarg and Pahalgam were present. The members showed great concern over the declining footfall of tourism.
Chaya said “tourism has gone bad to worst as occupancy is almost less than 5%. We have seen lots of ups and down during the turmoil of 30 years but this is the worst time. Famous tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam are also in the same position with Zero occupancy. “
“Negative portrayal of Kashmir affairs in the electronic media had scared the intending tourists and there is dire need to counter the negative propaganda,” he said adding that “situation by and large remained fine in Kashmir , still tourists did not come here in large number due to negative portrayal of Kashmir on TV. “
The statement adds that members of Hoteliers club in the meeting discusses ways and measures to woo tourists. They also deliberated on inviting travel Agents of other states on Fam Tours to the Valley, it adds.