JEHLUM VALLEY (Kashmir English): Thousands of tourists visited Jhelum Valley during Eid, causing severe traffic congestion on main roads, boosting local businesses, and prompting authorities to consider better infrastructure for future travel ease.
The festive celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr caused widespread tourism growth in all scenic locations of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and throughout the Jhelum Valley. People traveled in large numbers to Jaskool Waterfall together with Kotla Park and the scenic valleys bordering the Line of Control on the third day of Eid.
The valley experienced severe traffic congestion because of the huge number of tourists who clogged the main roads. Several major travel routes became completely congested due to heavy traffic, making it problematic for tourists to move freely throughout the district.
Visitors completely enjoyed the valley’s natural scenery although they raised worries about the parking situation and traffic congestion. A successful traffic police presence did not prevent the massive automobile volume from disrupting normal traffic flow, leading to extended travel times and discomfort.
Restaurant and hotel owners throughout the district saw an increase in commercial activity during Eid holidays which demonstrated the advantages of tourist development. The insufficient establishment of necessary facilities together with insufficient cleaning protocols remains a problem in several locations according to some tourists.
The situation has prompted the administration to adopt further steps that will improve traveler access while enhancing traffic control measures. Official representatives urge all visitors to follow traffic regulations which makes their travel safer with higher convenience.
Tourist numbers continue to rise because Jhelum Valley has become more popular among travelers while highlighting the necessity of better facilities for expanding visitor numbers. Especially during the festive seasons, Jhelum Valley and Azad Kashmir welcome numerous visitors, yet authorities must determine how to achieve sustainable tourism development while maintaining efficient visitor management.
