The border town of Uri in Kashmir has witnessed a significant boost in tourism following the Army’s decision to lift restrictions on visitor access to the Kaman Post, also known as Aman Sethu Bridge. This move has resulted in a substantial influx of tourists to the area, signalling a positive shift in promoting this once-restricted region as a tourist destination.
Local tourism officials report a marked increase in visitor numbers since the easing of restrictions. “We’ve seen a tremendous rise in tourists wanting to visit the Kaman Post. It’s not just the bridge itself, but the entire experience of being at the border that fascinates people,” said a tourism department official, speaking on condition of anonymity.
In a further effort to promote border tourism, the army organised the first-ever cultural festival, Jashn-E-Rustam, near the LoC in the Uri sector last year. The event was a resounding success, attracting a crowd of approximately 15,000 people. This impressive turnout underscores the area’s potential as a vibrant tourist destination.
Despite the success of these initiatives, locals believe more efforts are needed to fully explore the region’s tourism potential.
Rustum, renowned for the shrine of Rustum Pir Baba, Besides, vast meadows covered by forests, makes the area attractive for visitors. However, access to this site remains difficult compared to the relatively easier access to Kaman Post.
Zahid Ahmad, a resident while expressing gratitude for the army’s efforts said that their is need for improved access to Rustum.
“After the Jashn-e-Rustum event, more people want to visit, but it’s not possible. Authorities should set up a reception centre to facilitate visitor permissions,” Ahmad said.
In addition to access issues, residents highlighted the lack of proper infrastructure as a barrier to tourism growth in the border area of Uri.
Muhammad Ashraf, a local businessman, pointed out the absence of adequate accommodation facilities. He suggested reopening the well-equipped accommodation at TRC Salamabad, which has been non-functional since the cessation of bus services and trade between the two sides.