The aftermath of the recent terror attack in Kashmir has left many foreign tourists stranded in the region, grappling with skyrocketing prices and a pervasive sense of uncertainty.
As the state remains on edge following the attack, visitors eager to return home are finding themselves confined to their hotels, with limited options and exorbitant costs for travel. Authorities have confirmed that key transportation routes, including the main road connecting Jammu to Srinagar, have been closed. The possibility of reopening these routes remains uncertain, further compounding the situation for tourists. For many, flight tickets have become the only viable escape, but at a steep price. The flight fares have increased dramatically, leaving many in a financial bind.
Reports from various visitors trapped in the region reveal the extent of their ordeal. The prices for basic flights have surged; for instance, a flight from Srinagar to Kolkata, which would typically cost around Rs 10,000, now exceeds Rs 36,000. Similarly, a flight from Srinagar to Amritsar is now priced at over Rs 23,000, with no seats available for several days. This price hike is particularly concerning for tourists already facing travel disruptions and the anxiety of being in an unfamiliar, tense situation. “Several tourists who were hoping to leave the region are now faced with prices they simply cannot afford,” explained an expert from a national tourism organisation. “What was once an affordable travel option has become a financial burden for those already anxious about the situation.”
Local businesses, too, are feeling the pinch. As protests erupt in response to the attack, many local establishments have shuttered their doors, contributing to the scarcity of goods. Prices for daily essentials, including food and transportation, have seen dramatic increases. Tour operators have reported that prices for even basic items like chicken and fish have spiked, sometimes by as much as 30% overnight. “On Monday, I paid Rs 220 per kilogram for chicken, but by Tuesday, the price had shot up to Rs 300. Even transport fares have doubled, adding further strain on tourists already dealing with heightened stress,” said an official from a local tourism agency.
In addition to the financial stress, tourists are also dealing with a tense environment. The presence of military forces has heightened the sense of insecurity, making it even more difficult for visitors to navigate the region. While some groups have attempted to continue their sightseeing trips to areas like Sonmarg and Gulmarg, there remains significant uncertainty over the safety of these excursions. This situation has raised concerns among travel operators who have been working to keep international tourists informed. Many operators have been in constant contact with tourists to ensure their safety and provide updates about flight options and alternate routes. However, the high prices and the ongoing uncertainty are leaving little room for reassurance.
“The real challenge for tourism in the region is the psychological impact,” noted a senior tourism industry expert. “Tourists who had come to Kashmir to enjoy its natural beauty are now stuck in a state of fear and frustration. The sudden change in their plans, coupled with soaring costs, has created an unbearable situation for many.” Although the local population has been reportedly helpful, offering assistance to tourists in navigating the turmoil, the situation remains grim for many. Local authorities have urged visitors to remain calm and assured them that efforts are being made to restore normalcy. However, the combination of travel disruptions and inflated prices continues to make the situation difficult for those trying to leave.
Some industry observers are cautiously optimistic, noting that the impact of the attack on Kashmir’s tourism could be short-term. However, there is concern that, should this situation persist, it could result in a significant long-term decline in inbound tourism to the region. The recent attack, along with the ongoing challenges faced by tourists, has cast a shadow over Kashmir’s reputation as a prime tourist destination. “The situation here is fluid, and while we are hopeful that the security situation will improve, the price hikes and the logistical hurdles created by the closure of key routes will have long-lasting effects on tourism,” said an official from the tourism ministry.
Kashmir, once known for its serene beauty, is now confronting a complex set of challenges that could have long-term repercussions on its tourism industry. The soaring prices, combined with the uncertainty surrounding the safety of the region, have made it difficult for visitors to enjoy their stay or return home with ease. As the region grapples with these issues, it is clear that the impact of the attack will not be limited to the immediate aftermath. The tourism sector, which has long been a significant contributor to the region’s economy, may take a considerable time to recover, with both short-term disruptions and long-term perceptions of the region’s safety and affordability weighing heavily on its future.
Also Read : https://urbanacres.in/india-tourism-faces-setback-after-kashmir-attack/
Tourists Stranded in Kashmir Amid Rising Costs
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