Examiner Bureau | Srinagar: Omar Abdullah on Saturday inaugurated the historic Badamwari Garden in Srinagar, formally marking the beginning of the summer tourist season in Kashmir. The Chief Minister, however, expressed concern that rising airfares could potentially discourage tourists from visiting the Valley.
Speaking to reporters after the inauguration, Abdullah said the government was closely monitoring the situation regarding airfare prices. “The government is concerned about the rising airfares. It is a factor that has the potential to impact the influx of tourists,” he said, while expressing hope that a large number of visitors would still travel to Kashmir to experience its scenic beauty.
The Chief Minister also lauded the efforts of the Floriculture Department in preparing for the upcoming Kashmir Tulip Festival at the renowned Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden. Widely regarded as Asia’s largest tulip garden, the venue is set to open to visitors from March 16.
Abdullah said the garden currently features more than 1.7 million tulips of over 70 varieties, spread across nearly 30 hectares. The garden is expected to remain open to the public for about 25 to 30 days, depending on weather conditions.
Responding to questions on international developments, the Chief Minister also commented on India’s oil imports from Russia, saying that purchasing discounted crude benefits the country economically but emphasising that global peace remains paramount.
He further criticised recent developments in West Asia, particularly the killing of a senior Iranian religious leader, stating that external powers should not interfere in the internal affairs of sovereign nations.
On domestic political matters, Abdullah welcomed the recent release of a separatist leader who had been detained under the Public Safety Act, saying the arrest should not have taken place in the first place.
The inauguration of Badamwari—famous for its blooming almond blossoms—traditionally signals the arrival of spring in Kashmir and the beginning of the Valley’s peak tourism season.
