Reviving Hope: Border Tourism Flourishes In Keran Village After Ceasefire

Jammu and Kashmir, 11th August 2023: A village of several thousand residents, where lives were lost and people were left disabled due to ceasefire violations in Pakistan, is situated a four-hour drive away from Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir. This village, located at the banks of the Kishan Ganga river which flows into Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, is now experiencing a transformative period.

In the Kashmir region, areas close to the Line of Control have been designated for border tourism, aiming to create new travel destinations and generate employment opportunities for residents of these remote regions. Among these places, Keran stands out as a village that has been opened to both tourists and locals, with the goal of fostering border tourism in the Kashmir Valley. As a result, this frontier village is witnessing a steady increase in visitors, bringing happiness to its inhabitants who have established homestays and restaurants.

Mumtaz Ahmad, a local resident, reflects on the stark contrast from the past when the village was under the threat of shells, causing panic among schoolchildren and claiming lives. With the return of peace, the village’s newfound tourism industry is becoming a vital source of income. Mumtaz Ahmad warmly welcomes tourists to the picturesque location and expresses his delight at this positive change.

This location provides a scenic view of the Neelum Valley across the border, where Pakistan has developed resorts and hotels. India has also begun investing in infrastructure at the border to enhance accessibility to such destinations. While the number of tourists is currently limited, a gradual increase is being observed.

Mumtaz Ahmad points out that a renewed understanding between the militaries of India and Pakistan has eradicated the atmosphere of fear. The flourishing tourism industry is now offering young people new opportunities for growth. Raja, a tourist, was drawn to Keran after watching videos about it online. He attests that the reality is even more stunning than the virtual experience. He shares his interactions with people on the Pakistani side, emphasizing the positive and refreshing atmosphere at the border.

The ceasefire agreement between the Indian and Pakistani militaries has paved the way for public access to areas near the Line of Control. The Jammu and Kashmir tourism department is actively opening up more locations that were once contentious flashpoints between the two nations. What was once considered an improbable destination just a few years ago has now become a recognized spot on the tourism map, thanks to the combined efforts of the central and union territory administrations.

Raja Yaqoob, the Director of Tourism Kashmir, acknowledges the significant impact of the central government’s support and the administration of the union territory. This collective effort has led to the opening of additional locations for tourism due to the prevailing peace along the border.