Srinagar: Scores of horsemen across Kashmir are grappling with an unprecedented livelihood crisis following the prolonged closure of several key tourist destinations in the wake of the Pahalgam attack. While a limited number of spots have reopened, many popular resorts including Doodhpathri, Yousmarg, and Tosamaidan remain off-limits, pushing equestrians and their families into distress.
According to official figures, out of the 46 tourist destinations shut down in the aftermath of the attack, only 13 have been reopened so far. The continued restrictions on access to the remaining areas have severely impacted horsemen, many of whom depend solely on seasonal tourism for their income and the upkeep of their animals.
“We have no other source of income. Our horses are starving, and our families are on the brink. The government must understand that tourism is not just a sector it’s our survival,” said Abid Ahmed, a distressed horseman from the Budgam region.
Senior political leader Engineer Nazir Ahmed Yatoo staged a peaceful sit-in outside the Raj Bhavan in Srinagar on Wednesday, accompanied by Javaid Ahmed. Yatoo had intended to personally appeal to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for the reopening of the tourist destinations, but was informed the LG was not available.
“Earlier I protested outside the Chief Minister’s residence in Gupkar and was told the matter lies with the LG. That’s why I came here,” Yatoo told the Kashmir News Trust, urging the administration to take immediate action to ease the suffering of thousands of affected families.
Tourism stakeholders have also raised concerns that the prolonged closures could lead to irreversible damage to the tourism economy. Small traders, pony operators, hotel staff, and transporters all part of the broader tourism network are bearing the brunt of the continued restrictions.
Equestrians have called on the administration to strike a balance between security concerns and economic realities. They advocate for reopening tourist destinations under enhanced safety protocols, emphasizing that such a move would bring much-needed relief to families on the edge of financial collapse.
