Tourism Stakeholders of Jammu division welcome additional Relief Package

Jammu: The Tourism Stakeholders have extended gratitude to Lieutenant Governor J&K for extending an additional package of Rs 2.63 crore in favour of Ponywalas, Palkiwalas, Shikarawalas, Boatwalas, Camelwalas of Jammu region to ease their difficulties amid the covid pandemic.

The relief package has covered the remaining 951 Ponywalas, Palkiwalas, Pithuwalas etc registered with the Office of Shivkhori Shrine Board.

A considerable number of 12202 Ponywalas, Palkiwalas, Pithuwalas registered with the office of Katra Municipal Committee will also get their due share.

The relief amount also includes 18 Shikarwalas/Paddle Boat Owners and 11 Ponywalas/Camelwalas registered with the Department of Tourism.

In wake of Covid-19 Pandemic, Tourism Sector, which is one of the largest revenue generating industry of J&K, has suffered huge losses.

This sector employs many seasonal, professional, part-time and temporary workers.

With the impact of crisis expected, continuing over many months to come, Jobs directly or indirectly associated with the industry will suffer. This step of the Lieutenant Governor, J&K is a balance measure and was the need of the hour.

Director Tourism Jammu extended his gratitude to the Advisor (BK) to the Lieutenant Governor, Financial Commissioner Finance Department, Principal Secretary to Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor and Secretary Tourism and Culture for announcing such a package for the tourism stakeholders in wake of Covid-19 Pandemic. Overall, this economic package is historic in terms of volume and reach and would help in rebuilding trust and faith of local youth in Administration.