Kashmir Tourism Department suspends rafting-related activities in entire Valley

Days after three people died during rafting expeditions in Lidder stream in Pahalgam resort, authorities in Kashmir have suspended the adventure sport in the entire Valley till a proper mechanism is put in place.

The suspension order was passed by the Tourism Department of Kashmir on late Thursday evening.      

"In the interest of administration and safety of tourists, it is hereby ordered that all rafting-related activities at all tourist destinations particularly at Pahalgam and Sonamarg shall remain suspended till a proper mechanism / technical guidance is put in place at all such locations," the order reads.

The tourism director has asked the officers concerned to ensure implementation of the order in letter and spirit and also report its compliance.

The order has been issued after two accidents occurred during rafting expeditions in Lidder stream of Pahalgam tourist resort in south Kashmir's Anantnag district in which three people were killed.

It is to be noted that that on June 1, a tourist guide Rouf Ahmad Dar lost his life while saving five tourists, including two foreigners, during a rafting expedition in the stream.

Two people, including a tourism department employee, were killed on June 18 in another such accident in the stream.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik had expressed grief over the unfortunate incident. He also announced ex-gratia of Rs two lakh each to kin of the dead and directed authorities to ensure the best possible treatment for the injured.

“The governor prayed for peace to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved families in their hour of grief. He has wished a speedy recovery to the injured," Satya Pal Malik’s spokesperson said.