Tourists at ease in Kashmir; safe, serene valley lures travellers

Tourists accuse national news channels of misleading the masses about ‘violence’ in the valley

Srinagar: Tourists relaxing in the tranquil ambience of Yousmarg, a popular tourist destination, stated on Thursday that, contrary to national news reports, the situation in Kashmir is indeed safe for visitors.

In a chat with Digpu News, a tourist – Abhijeet Sharma from New Delhi – said he has visited Kashmir numerous times and considers it to be the most beautiful spot on the planet.

“The people here are kind and helpful, and the hospitality is excellent. What is being shown on various television news channels about Kashmir is a complete fabrication, and the situation is absolutely normal here,” Sharma stated.

‘Lovely place, but priority should be on keeping it clean’

He further added that his advice to everyone is to visit Kashmir without reservations “because it is a really calm area with incredible people and hospitality.”

Sham Lal, another visitor from Prayagraj, expressed his delight at being in Kashmir. “It’s a very lovely location, and we didn’t see anything like what’s on TV about Kashmir,” Sham added.

Simran Kour, another tourist, said she was moved by Kashmir’s hospitality and feels at ease. According to her, the government must pay special attention in keeping Kashmir clean and beautiful. “Everyone should come here to enjoy life because it is truly heaven on earth,” Kour added.

Security forces’ presence minimized gradually after SAS Geelani’s death

The administration has been gradually relaxing restrictions in Kashmir valley after the demise of Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani.

Although there are no limitations on people’s mobility in the Valley, many strategic and important roads in various locations have been guarded by check-points of the government forces, including J-K Police and CRPF.

After a protracted illness, Geelani, 91, died at his residence in Srinagar on the night of September 1. The leader was laid to rest near his home in Hyderpora area of capital city Srinagar.

Schools reopen as Covid-19 scenario improves

Schools in Jammu and Kashmir resumed functioning with 50% capacity for classes 10th and 12th after a protracted closure owing to the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to the regulations, classes for students in the 12th grade were allowed, but in-person attendance was ordered not to surpass 50% on any given day.

However, Chief Secretary A K Mehta in a meeting, held earlier this month, made the decision of keeping in place major Covid-19 SOPs including the night curfew.