The Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) has expressed its concern over the difficulties faced by tourists due to the heavy snowfall across Kashmir. In a statement, TAAK emphasized that tourists were left stranded overnight in popular destinations such as Sonmarg, Pahalgam, and Gulmarg, with minimal assistance from the administration.
TAAK showed its dismay over the lack of preparedness by the authorities, stating that the situation could have been avoided with better planning and timely action. The association noted that, in the past, the government used to hold snow preparedness meetings ahead of the winter season, ensuring smooth travel for tourists and locals. However, such proactive measures have been lacking in recent years, resulting in the current chaotic scenario.
In light of the ongoing crisis, TAAK has urged local stakeholders, including hoteliers and tour operators, to extend full support to the stranded tourists. The association called for immediate efforts to ensure the safe movement of tourists to their destinations.
Additionally, TAAK has requested the administration to clear snow from roads on a war-footing basis and ensure uninterrupted electric and water supply in all tourist resorts and also to take necessary measures to prevent similar situations in the future.
TAAK has called on all stakeholders to collaborate and ensure the safety and well-being of tourists visiting Kashmir during the winter season.
To assist the stranded tourists, TAAK has also issued the following helpline numbers