Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday announced the establishment of a memorial in Baisaran to honor the 26 victims of last month’s terror attack near Pahalgam, pledging it would serve as a lasting tribute and a reminder of the innocent lives lost.
“We have been discussing this from day one – a memorial will be set up in Baisaran for the 26 innocent lives lost, as a lasting tribute and a reminder that they will never be forgotten,” Abdullah said during an address to travel and tour operators gathered from across the country.
He confirmed that the Public Works Department has been granted in-principle approval to proceed with the project following a cabinet meeting held earlier in the day in Pahalgam. The Chief Minister emphasized that public suggestions would be welcomed to ensure the memorial is both “dignified and magnificent.”
Tourism Revival and Security Assurance
Extending gratitude to visiting tour operators, the Chief Minister said,
“I thank each one of you for coming to Pahalgam and supporting the revival of tourism. Many of you stood by us during the most difficult times — when even locals feared venturing out.”
While acknowledging persistent security challenges, Abdullah underscored the need for stringent safety measures:
“Although we do not fully control the security apparatus, I believe what happened should never have happened. We must do everything possible to ensure it never happens again.”
He urged the tourism industry to maintain transparency with tourists, especially in the wake of the Baisaran incident:
“Let’s not focus on what’s closed, but on what’s open. It’s better to speak the truth than mislead tourists.”
The Chief Minister assured that tourism stakeholders would be fully consulted on all decisions regarding the reopening of tourist destinations.
Focus on Domestic Tourism
Speaking about the roadmap for reviving international tourism, Abdullah said that domestic tourism is the foundation for global tourist interest.
“Our experience shows that international tourists return after domestic footfall increases. The first sign of normalcy is when school children and families start visiting again. Once that momentum builds, global interest follows.”
Industry Participation and CM’s Eco-Tourism Push
The gathering saw participation from major travel bodies and agencies including Raja Rani Travels, Heena Travels, Veena World, KK Tours, Thomas Cook, and associations like TAFI, ADTOI, ETAA, and OTOAI. Delegates from national media, along with local hoteliers and tourism stakeholders, also engaged in dialogue with the Chief Minister.
The session was attended by former CM Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, MLAs from Pahalgam and Bijbehara, and senior officials from Tourism and JKTDC.
Later, Abdullah visited the Nunwan Base Camp to assess preparations for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, emphasizing the importance of coordination among departments to ensure pilgrims’ safety and comfort.
In a symbolic move to promote eco-tourism and sustainability, the CM also undertook a cycling tour from a local hotel to Nunwan Base Camp and back, signaling support for green initiatives launched by the Tourism Department.
“Tourism must evolve — and sustainable, eco-conscious travel is the way forward,” said Abdullah, who also holds the Tourism portfolio in J&K.
