Tourism Blooms, Development Lags in Kashmir's Keran Village
Keran
village, nestled on the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir, is
witnessing a sudden influx of tourists due to its breathtaking views and
serene surroundings. Known for its picturesque landscape along the
Kishanganga River, the region has become a newfound attraction for
visitors seeking peace and adventure near the sensitive border area.
Despite
the increase in tourist activity, the locals of Keran continue to
suffer from a lack of development. Basic infrastructure, such as roads,
healthcare facilities, and schools, remains severely underdeveloped.
Residents complain that while the government promotes border tourism, it
has largely ignored the pressing needs of the village.
"We
are happy to see tourists coming here, but we need better roads and
facilities," says Bashir Ahmed, a local shop owner. "People love our
village, but we are still deprived of even basic amenities like clean
water and proper healthcare."
Keran,
due to its proximity to the LoC, has always been a restricted and
isolated area. But with the government's recent focus on promoting
border tourism, the village has seen more visitors in the past year.
While this has boosted the local economy to some extent, it has not
translated into improved living conditions for its residents.
Tourism
may be flourishing, but the people of Keran await the long-promised
development, hoping their village will one day thrive, not just as a
tourist destination, but as a place where they can live comfortably.
