SRINAGAR: Apni Party president Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Wednesday urged the administration to revoke restrictions on trekking, hiking and camping activities in Jammu and Kashmir, saying the ban was adversely affecting adventure tourism and the livelihoods of local youth associated with the sector.
In a statement, Bukhari appealed to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to intervene and consider lifting the restrictions in the larger interest of tourism and employment generation.
He said the continued ban on trekking and related adventure activities was limiting the tourism potential of Jammu and Kashmir and depriving hundreds of young people working as guides, porters and support staff of their livelihoods.
“I urge the Lieutenant Governor to consider revoking the ban on trekking and related adventure activities in Jammu and Kashmir in the larger interest of the tourism sector and the many people whose livelihoods depend on these activities,” Bukhari said.
He said trekking is primarily conducted during the summer season, which lasts only a few months every year, making the current period crucial for those dependent on adventure tourism.
Bukhari maintained that lifting the restrictions would not only provide relief to local communities and tourism-related businesses but also allow visitors and adventure enthusiasts to explore the region’s natural landscapes and trekking destinations.
He said the move would help strengthen adventure tourism while creating employment opportunities for local youth associated with the sector.
