G20 Tourism Working Group Meets in Srinagar Amid Heightened Security

The third G20 Tourism Working Group meeting has commenced at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre in Srinagar, marking a significant global event held in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370. Over the course of two days, the summit will bring together more than 60 delegates and 20 journalists representing various parts of the world. Despite the absence of some member countries, including China, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, the event boasts the highest delegate participation compared to previous similar meetings.

China's decision to stay away from the meeting was attributed to its firm opposition to holding G20 gatherings in "disputed areas." On the other hand, Saudi Arabia did not register for the event, while Turkey chose not to participate in the Srinagar meeting. Nevertheless, the summit will witness the attendance of members from the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) and ambassadors from Nigeria and Indonesia.

As part of their visit to Kashmir, the delegates will have the opportunity to explore prominent attractions such as Pari Mahal, Chesmashai, and other Mughal gardens. They will also take a stroll through the renovated Polo View Market. The delegates are scheduled to leave the Kashmir Valley on Wednesday.

In light of the high-profile gathering, security measures have been significantly strengthened throughout Kashmir. Elite National Security Guard (NSG) counter-drone teams are closely monitoring the skies, while marine commandos patrol the Dal Lake. In addition, numerous security personnel have been deployed on the ground to ensure the safety and security of the G20 meeting.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police, in collaboration with the Army, are closely monitoring the Zabarwan Range, which overlooks the meeting venue and accommodation facilities for the guests. Over 30 companies of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) have been recalled from election duty in other parts of the country to reinforce security in the valley.

To address any potential threats, a specialized unit of "Black Cat" commandos remains on high alert, prepared to respond to hostage-like situations. The Dal Lake is also being patrolled by MARCOS teams, along with personnel from the river wing of the Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF, given its proximity to the convention centre located on the lake's bank. Rigorous scanning and the use of sniffer dogs have been implemented to detect any explosives or improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Additionally, random vehicle checks are being conducted to prevent the entry of any subversive elements into the city.

One of the main agendas of the G20 Tourism Working Group is to promote film tourism. The event aims to showcase the potential of Jammu and Kashmir as a film tourism destination, contributing to the region's economic growth. G20 chief coordinator Harshvardhan Shringla expressed confidence in the success of these efforts, stating that they will attract a different kind of tourism to Kashmir.

In summary, the G20 Tourism Working Group has commenced its meeting in Srinagar under tight security measures, marking the first global event held in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370. Despite the absence of certain member countries, the summit has witnessed significant delegate participation, with over 60 delegates and 20 journalists attending from different parts of the world.

The event aims to promote Jammu and Kashmir's potential for film tourism, highlighting its scenic beauty and cultural richness. Delegates will have the opportunity to explore popular attractions such as Pari Mahal, Chesmashai, and the Mughal gardens, as well as experience the vibrant atmosphere of the renovated Polo View Market.

Security arrangements have been significantly enhanced to ensure a safe and secure environment for the G20 meeting. Elite NSG counter-drone teams are monitoring the skies, while marine commandos patrol the Dal Lake. Extensive ground deployment of security personnel, including the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army, and CRPF, aims to prevent any potential threats. The Zabarwan Range overlooking the meeting venue and accommodation facilities is under close monitoring, and vehicles passing through the city are subject to random checks.

The G20 Tourism Working Group also holds film tourism as a key agenda, recognizing the potential economic benefits it can bring to Jammu and Kashmir. By showcasing the region's attractions to international delegates, the event aims to attract a new wave of tourism, contributing to the growth of the local economy.