SRINAGAR: When it has been snowing continuously since the last three days disrupting all means of connectivity people associated with Travel trade here have lent a helping hand to the stranded tourists who have been stuck due to closure of road and air connectivity. welcoming them to their residential homes
It’s pertinent to mention here that Kashmir has witnessed unprecedented tourist footfall recently and most of the hotels in winter wonderland Gulmarg remain sold out.
In a statement issued to press ,Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK) issued a helpline to reach out to the stranded tourists who need any help for accommodation, medical assistance, food, and other services.
President of the Association Farooq Kuthoo said many travellers are stranded here in Kashmir due to cancellation of the flights and closure of highway. Keeping up with the legacy of hospitality that Kashmiris are known for through centuries we would not see our guests’ sufferings. They have assured the stranded tourists through social media, newspapers and radio not to worry and contact on the helpline numbers displayed for any assistance.
TAAK which is one of the largest travel trade bodies of Jammu & Kashmir in a statement mentioned that they cannot bear to see the sufferings of tourists during such exigencies. We have done it earlier during the floods of 2014 and after the sudden announcement of abrogation of Art 370.
As Tour Operators with limited resources we may not be able to accommodate the stranded guests in hotels but our homes are open to them where they can have the first hand experience of the warm hospitality of Kashmir in a homely atmosphere.
In a statement TAAK President appreciated the department of Tourism for establishing a helpline for the stranded tourists and offering them free accomodation in department owned hotels.
As responsible citizens of Kashmir it’s our moral obligation to render our help and extend hand holding to the tourists who have come to see the paradise on earth.

KR Desk