On the occasion of World Tourism Day, the Jammu and Kashmir Department of Tourism organized various activities on Sunday, including water sports and the ‘Shikara race’ in Dal Lake, Srinagar.
The department has come forward to host the event to boost tourism activities in the Union Territory amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Nisar Ahmad Wani, Kashmir Director of Tourism, said: “We are celebrating the occasion throughout the Union Territory. We have sports activities and cultural programs in various tourist spots like Srinagar, Gulmarg ”.
The closure of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the closure of all businesses in the valley. The tourism sector was also severely affected. But now, during the unblocking phase, the tourism sector has started to reopen as they follow the standard operating procedures introduced by the Jammu and Kashmir administration.
“Our motive is to boost the tourism sector and spread the message that Kashmir is ready for tourism. The sector was affected by the coronavirus, but now the administration has introduced standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the tourism sector. It will help tourists here to contain the spread of the virus during their visit, ”Wani added.
The administration made the decision to boost the tourism sector with many more programs in the coming days. They are organizing these programs in other famous tourist destinations in Kashmir to invite tourists to come to the Union Territory.
“We are also promoting the tourism sector in various states, including Delhi and Mumbai, welcoming people to visit the Union Territory,” he said.
On the occasion, Bilki Shamir, National Trainer for Kayaking and Canoeing said that the administration has organized the program. During the program, people will see activities like kayaking, canoeing, Shikara running, surfing.
Shamir said: “Jammu and Kashmir has several natural water resources that promote water sports here.”
“We hope to reactivate the tourism sector and receive more tourists,” he added.
Hamid Aziz, a participant said: “I have participated in the cycling race. These activities will help boost tourism in the Union Territory ”.
Jaan Saheb from the Department of Tourism said: “We want to send a message that all tourist spots are open in Jammu and Kashmir during the coronavirus shutdown. All people visiting here must follow the SOPs issued by the administration. “
(This story was posted from a cable agency feed with no text changes. Only the title has been changed.)
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