SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and Kashmir Trade Alliance (KTA) have extended a warm welcome to all Amarnath Yatra pilgrims visiting the valley this year.
KCCI, in a statement issued here, reaffirmed that the people of Kashmir have always upheld the spirit of communal harmony, brotherhood, and mutual respect. “Kashmir is known for its unmatched hospitality, rich culture and centuries-old civilisation; and over the years, local people have consistently welcomed pilgrims with open hearts. The pilgrimage holds deep spiritual significance and also reflects the age-old bond between the people of Kashmir and the visiting devotees,” the Chamber said.
KCCI has appealed to the government to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place for the comfort, safety, and well-being of the pilgrims. Adequate medical facilities, seamless logistics, sanitation, and other essential services should be prioritised to facilitate a smooth and safe Yatra experience for our revered guests, it said.
The Chamber has reiterated its full support in fostering an atmosphere of peace, unity, and cooperation. “We believe that such sacred events further strengthen the bonds of harmony and shared heritage,” it said.
The KCCI also appealed to Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to facilitate the smooth movement of tourists who come from far-off places to visit the scenic landscape of Kashmir during the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. This will help tourism to revive post-unfortunate Pahalgham incident, it said.
The Chamber has requested that the administration ensure tourists visiting the valley during the yatra period are provided with hassle-free access to all major tourist destinations.
In a statement, the Kashmir Trade Alliance president, Aijaz Shahdharsaid the people of Kashmir have always upheld the centuries-old tradition of communal harmony and brotherhood. “The Amarnath Yatra is a symbol of our composite culture, and we welcome the pilgrims with open hearts, as we have done for decades,” he said.
Shahdhar further added that this year’s yatra assumes added significance as it is expected to revive economic activity in the valley, especially in the wake of the recent setback following the April incident in Pahalgam. “Tourism and pilgrim flow are vital for the livelihood of thousands of people associated with the hospitality, transport, trade and allied sectors,” he noted.
The KTA urged the administration to ensure that all necessary arrangements are put in place for the smooth conduct of the yatra, including adequate security, medical facilities, and road connectivity, so that the pilgrimage proceeds in a safe and peaceful manner. “We are hopeful that this year’s yatra will be successful and will help restore confidence and normalcy in the region,” Shahdhar said.
KCCI, KTA welcome Amarnath Yatra pilgrims, call for seamless arrangements, tourism revival
