23 Jun, 2017
Thousands lose jobs as restive Kashmir’s tourism economy dwindles – Hindustan Times
At the Dal Lake in Srinagar, Rizwan Ahmad Bhat stands next to his shikara (a traditional boat), named Do Badan Ek Jan (two bodies, one soul), waiting for tourists. Last year this time, the lake was packed with visitors exploring its waters and the views of the surrounding Zabarwan hills. This summer, the lake and its shores are empty of tourists and the smartly-dressed boatman is upset.
“Look at our empty boats,” said Bhat, 31. “We have nobody to take on a ride.” Half-a-dozen other boatmen, dressed in T-shirts and jeans, stood around, listening to the conversation. They complained that the media is scaring tourists away from Kashmir. “When people watch TV, they think Kashmir is burning and we should not go there,” said one of them, and others agreed.
Read the rest: Thousands lose jobs as restive Kashmir’s tourism economy dwindles | india-news | Hindustan Times
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