The picturesque border areas of North Kashmir’s Kupwara district have witnessed a remarkable surge in tourism, presenting abundant opportunities for the local population to earn a livelihood. The prevailing tranquility along the Line of Control (LoC) has brought a much-needed sense of peace and serenity to the residents of Teethwal, Keran, Machil, Jumgund, Kumkadi, and neighboring areas.
Embracing this newfound peace, the local community is experiencing an atmosphere of hope and growth, with tourism emerging as a powerful driver of economic progress in the region. Prominent sites like Keran, Machil, Teethwal, and Bangus Valley have become sought-after destinations for both domestic and international travelers.
Working in synergy, the civil government and the army have orchestrated a range of cultural programs across these locales, captivating a large influx of tourists. As part of the initiative, the “Home Stay” plan has been introduced, allowing tourists to experience the authentic local lifestyle by lodging overnight in registered homes. This collaborative effort has not only created an additional revenue stream for the locals but has also fostered cultural exchange between visitors and the community.
Er. Farooq Ahmad Shah, Executive Engineer of the Tourism Department, Kupwara revealed that hundreds of applications from enthusiastic locals, aspiring to register their homes for tourism purposes, have been received. Following rigorous evaluations, these houses have been officially registered, meeting all necessary prerequisites. The initiative has yielded mutual benefits for both tourists and the local population, enhancing the overall experience.
Notably, enterprising young individuals have capitalized on the flourishing tourism industry by setting up tents for tourists. Bilal Ahmad, a young entrepreneur from Keran, stands as a prime example, establishing tents to accommodate visitors. Inspired by his success, several other industrious youth in the vicinity are planning to follow suit, capitalizing on this economic opportunity.
In a commendable gesture, the Indian Red Cross Society’s Kupwara unit has organized first aid training sessions for the local youth, equipping them with essential skills to ensure the safety and well-being of tourists. However, the absence of reliable mobile coverage in the Keran sector has become a point of concern for local residents. They fear that the lack of cellular connectivity might discourage tourists from staying, potentially affecting the region’s tourism potential. Nevertheless, the undeniable benefits brought forth by the tourism boom in the area overshadow this challenge.
Local inhabitants of Kupwara’s border areas harbour high hopes for perpetual peace along the LoC, envisioning a prosperous future for their beloved region. With the remarkable growth in tourism, coupled with the ongoing efforts of the administration and the army, a stronger and more prosperous future seems imminent. The resounding success of the “Home Stay” initiative, combined with the entrepreneurial spirit demonstrated by the young local residents, has paved the way for unprecedented growth and development, instilling a renewed sense of hope and optimism within the hearts of the locals.