Srinagar, May 15: Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu on Thursday assured that the central government will take all necessary steps to revive tourism in Kashmir following a noticeable decline in tourist arrivals after last month’s terror attack in Pahalgam.
During his visit to Srinagar, Naidu conducted a review of operations at Srinagar airport, which recently resumed services after a temporary suspension linked to hostilities between India and Pakistan. The minister also engaged with local residents and traders at Polo View market in the heart of the city.
He emphasized that Kashmir had seen robust tourism growth in recent years, with passenger arrivals at Srinagar airport rising from 25 lakh in 2019 to approximately 45 lakh in 2024.
Naidu also reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to supporting Kashmir’s tourism sector through civil aviation infrastructure and connectivity improvements, noting that the ministry is working under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for the region’s development.
On restoring operations at the Srinagar airport, the minister stated:
Naidu further lauded the armed forces for their response through Operation Sindoor, which he described as a “targeted and befitting reply to terrorists,” asserting the nation's pride in their resilience.
The Centre’s focus now shifts to restoring normalcy and reassuring both domestic and international tourists that Kashmir remains a safe and welcoming destination.