11/07/2025
PDF President Hakeem Yaseen, other leaders met LG Manoj Sinha; seeks reopening of tourist spots in Budgam
Ban on Doodhpathri, Tosamaidan, Yousmarg to be lifted soon: LG assures Hakeem Yaseen
Srinagar, July 11:
People’s Democratic Front (PDF) President and former Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen on Friday called on the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhavan, Srinagar. He was accompanied by PDF Vice President Showkat Ahmad Raina, General Secretary Dr Nissar Paul, Cheif Spokesperson Mushtaq Shameem and District President Srinagar Sheikh Ab Rashid.
During the meeting, the delegation apprised the Lieutenant Governor of the prevailing socio-economic situation in Kashmir and the pressing need to generate employment avenues for the unemployed youth in the region.
Hakeem Yaseen expressed concern over the extended closure of key tourist destinations in Budgam district, including Doodhpathri, Tosamaidan, and Yousmarg, which has severely impacted the local economy. He highlighted that many individuals have availed loans from banks and invested heavily in infrastructure, particularly in hotels, guest houses, and other tourism-related ventures. The continued restrictions on these tourist spots have resulted in mounting financial pressure on these entrepreneurs.
"The tourism sector in Budgam holds immense potential to provide sustainable livelihoods to hundreds of families. Reopening these destinations will not only revive economic activity but also offer new opportunities to our youth," Hakeem Yaseen told the Lieutenant Governor.
Responding positively to the delegation’s concerns, LG Manoj Sinha assured Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen that the ban on these tourist destinations will be lifted soon, and necessary instructions are being reviewed to ensure the revival of tourism and related services in Budgam.
The meeting concluded on a hopeful note with the Lieutenant Governor assuring continued support for the development of the tourism sector and youth empowerment initiatives in Jammu and Kashmir.
The delegation also demanded the development of a Nilnag Development Authority to boost infrastructure and ensure planned, eco-friendly development of the scenic Nilnag area, which has significant tourism potential.
