JNM journalist Hardeep Jamwal, Jammu
Iltija Mufti, daughter of PDP leader and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, has expressed concern over the growing tourist traffic in Kashmir. She said the ever-increasing number of tourist vehicles in the Valley is putting pressure on roads and could impact the environment. She has demanded the government set a maximum limit on the number of tourist vehicles.
Iltija Mufti, reacting on the social media platform X, said that Kashmir’s narrow roads are overcrowded. She said tourists should be welcomed, but the uncontrolled number of vehicles could become a major problem in the future. She expressed hope that the government will take concrete steps to address this issue soon.
Iltija’s statement comes at a time when preparations for the Amarnath Yatra are in the final stages. A few days ago, Mehbooba Mufti appealed to the people of Kashmir to welcome pilgrims coming on the Amarnath Yatra like family members.
The BJP has reacted sharply to Iltija Mufti’s statement. BJP leader Parimoksh Seth said that the tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir is steadily growing, and the livelihoods of thousands of families are dependent on it. It is unfortunate to portray tourists as a problem at such a time.
He said that the large number of tourists visiting the valley, even after the Pahalgam terrorist attack, indicates increased confidence in the peace and security of Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP alleges that such statements could harm the state’s positive image.
According to experts, this year a large number of tourists are arriving in Kashmir in their private vehicles, which has increased traffic congestion on several major roads in Srinagar. Traffic jams are particularly common in Boulevard Road and the Nishat area.
It is noteworthy that National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi has previously expressed concern about the growing tourism. Last year, he said that uncontrolled tourism could put pressure on Kashmir’s cultural identity and local resources.
Currently, Iltija Mufti’s statement has sparked a political debate. One side is calling it a serious environmental and transportation issue, while the other side is calling it detrimental to tourism and the state’s image.
