The Biz Reporter
Srinagar, Jan 13: The absence of snow in the picturesque tourist resort of Sonamarg is causing dismay among visitors and raising concerns among local tourism stakeholders. The ongoing dry spell has left the region devoid of its characteristic snow-covered charm, impacting various sectors, especially tourism.
Javid Ahmad, a stakeholder in the tourism industry, highlighted the significance of snowfall in elevating the value of places like Sonamarg. He emphasized that the current dry spell not only affects tourism but also has immediate repercussions on agriculture and other sectors.
Tour operators like Bashir Ahmad express concerns about the decline in tourist interest. Many visitors are opting for destinations like Manali, citing the allure of snow-covered landscapes. Ahmad noted that the absence of snow is already impacting tourism in the region, with potential long-term consequences for local businesses.
Musharafa, a tourist from Bengaluru, expressed disappointment over the lack of snow but still found joy in the cold climate. Despite the reduced snowfall, she remains fond of Kashmir and is determined to enjoy her visit.
Local businesses, including restaurants like Ishfaq Bashir’s in Sonamarg, report a decline in operations and bookings. Business owners are hopeful for improved conditions to attract more tourists to the region.
Contrary to these concerns, officials from the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) paint a more optimistic picture. They claim that the tourist resort has witnessed a good number of visitors compared to the previous year. The administration has decided to keep Sonamarg open throughout the winter, introducing winter sports activities to enhance the visitor experience. SDA officials remain optimistic about increased footfall when snowfall occurs, noting the availability of 300 rooms, double the number of hotels compared to the previous year.
