Katra–Srinagar Rail Link Inaugurated: Kashmir’s Tourism and Economy Poised for Revival June 9, 2025, Reasi/Srinagar — Prime Minister Narendra Modi ceremonially inaugurated the world’s highest railway arch bridge, the Chenab Bridge, as part of the 272 km Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL), officially opening the first-ever direct rail connection between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India . Simultaneously, the brand-new Vande Bharat Express service between Katra and Srinagar began commercial operations on June 7. Chenab Bridge: India’s Engineering Crown Jewel Constructed with more than 30,000 tonnes of steel, the 1,315 m long Chenab Bridge…
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Reviving Kashmir’s Tourism: CM Omar Abdullah’s Strategic Vision Post-Pahalgam Tragedy
Kashmir Tourism Revival in Motion: CM Omar Abdullah’s Resilient Roadmap Srinagar 28 May 2025: In the wake of the tragic April 22 attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism industry faced a significant setback. Recognizing the sector’s vital role in the region’s economy and cultural identity, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has initiated a multifaceted strategy to restore confidence among tourists and stakeholders. The Pahalgam Attack: A Blow to Tourism On April 22, 2025, a terrorist attack in Pahalgam resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, predominantly…
Read MoreKashmir’s Tourism Crisis: Hotels, Cab Drivers & Pony Operators Struggle
Security & Recovery: How J&K Plans to Revive Tourism After Pahalgam Attack Srinagar 23 May 2025: The Pahalgam terror attack has had devastating consequences for the local economy, with thousands of people losing their livelihoods due to the sharp decline in tourism. The once-bustling resort town now wears a deserted look, as tourists have canceled trips, leaving hotel staff, pony operators, cab drivers, and shopkeepers struggling to make ends meet. Impact on Local Businesses The economic fallout of the attack has been severe, affecting multiple sectors that rely on tourist…
Read MoreEchoes of Silence: Empty Streets, Deserted Hotels, A Valley in Mourning
Kashmir’s Economic Heart Bleeds: A Valley in Crisis By: Javid AminSrinagar, April 24, 2025 : Kashmir, often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” has long captivated travelers with its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. In early 2025, the region witnessed a significant surge in tourism, with over 525,000 visitors flocking to its valleys in just the first three months. This influx brought renewed hope to the local economy, heavily reliant on tourism. However, the serenity was shattered on April 22, 2025, when a devastating terror attack in Pahalgam claimed the…
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