Says current tourist rush doesn’t justify curbs, asks officials to review decision
Waris Fayaz
Tangmarg, Jul 06 :
Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Gulmarg, Farooq Shah, on Monday said there was no immediate need to implement the recently notified odd-even traffic regulation in the renowned tourist destination, asserting that the present visitor footfall does not warrant such restrictions.
Speaking to reporters after laying the foundation stone of a clock tower at Tangmarg, MLA Shah, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said he has advised the concerned officials to review the order.
“There is no immediate need for implementing the odd-even traffic order as the tourist footfall is not that high at present. I have asked the officials concerned to review the decision,” he said.
Shah said such measures could be considered in the future if tourist arrivals increase to a level where traffic regulation becomes necessary. “If, in future, the footfall increases and such a system is felt necessary, it can be implemented. But as of now, I don’t think it is required,” he said.
The MLA said the priority should be to ensure visitors have a smooth and hassle-free travel experience in Gulmarg. “We are trying to ensure that tourists enjoy a smooth journey and do not feel cheated or inconvenienced. We should respect their decision to visit our tourist destinations and make every effort to ensure they return again and again,” he said.
The Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) recently ordered the implementation of an odd-even vehicle entry system for private and commercial four-wheelers into Gulmarg on a pilot basis from July 5 to August 5 to reduce congestion and improve environmental conditions in the hill resort—(KNO)