𝐎𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐀𝐧𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐬

Pahalgam, May 27 — Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday announced that a memorial will be constructed at Baisaran in memory of the 26 civilians killed in the April 22 terror attack near Pahalgam. The announcement was made during an interaction with tour operators from across the country, shortly after he chaired a special Cabinet meeting in the town.

“We’ve planned this from day one—a memorial will come up at Baisaran to honour the 26 innocent lives lost,” Omar said. “It will stand as a permanent reminder that these lives mattered and will never be forgotten.” He confirmed that the Public Works Department has received in-principle approval for the project and that the memorial’s design will be finalised after consultations to ensure it is both dignified and respectful.

The Chief Minister described the Cabinet meeting in Pahalgam as a symbolic statement against terrorism. “Brutality and bloodshed will not derail Jammu and Kashmir’s journey towards peace, development, and democratic representation,” he said.

During his interaction with tour and travel operators, Omar thanked them for their continued support. “Your presence in Pahalgam today contributes directly to reviving tourism in the region,” he said. Recalling the revival of tourism in the early 1990s led by operators from Gujarat and Mumbai, he noted, “That spirit helped Kashmir rebound, and while April 22 reminded us of how fragile peace can be, our resolve remains firm.”

He called for clarity in communication as the tourism sector gradually reopens. “We need to focus on what is open and accessible, not just what’s closed. Tourists should get accurate information,” he said. He specifically mentioned Betaab Valley as one of the destinations that could soon reopen, noting his recent visit there.

Omar also assured tour operators of their inclusion in the decision-making process as tourism sites begin to open in phases. “We will proceed responsibly, and your input will be key,” he said.

Turning to the future of international tourism in J&K, Omar emphasized that a rebound in domestic tourism would lay the foundation. “Normalcy returns when locals and families start visiting picnic spots again. That’s when international tourists gain confidence,” he said. While global outreach will continue, the current focus, he said, is on rebuilding the domestic market.

He acknowledged there are areas that need improvement in tourism infrastructure and policy, assuring the industry that corrective steps will be taken. “We’re aware of the existing gaps and are committed to addressing them,” he said.

The event was attended by a wide spectrum of tourism professionals, including representatives from leading agencies such as Veena World, Thomas Cook, Travel Munk, Heena Travels, KK Tours, and others from associations like TAFI, ADTOI, ETAA, and OTOAI.

Former Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah, CM’s Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani, local legislators, the Director of Tourism, and senior JKTDC officials were also present.

During his visit, Omar also met local delegations led by the MLA Pahalgam to review preparations for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra at the Nunwan Base Camp. Emphasizing the importance of coordination and safety, he interacted with frontline officials and praised local residents for their cooperation in difficult times.

In a symbolic push for eco-tourism, the Chief Minister also led a short cycling trip from a nearby hotel to the Nunwan Base Camp. As Tourism Minister, he said this reflects his government’s broader commitment to sustainable tourism initiatives in the Union Territory.