Srinagar, October 10: Acting on directions of Governor Satya Pal Malik, the Jammu and Kashmir administration on Thursday withdrew the two-month-old advisory asking tourists to leave the Valley. Tourists were asked to leave Jammu and Kashmir early August after the Modi government moved to withdraw the state's special status granted under Article 370. Lifting the advisory, the government assured all help to tourists visiting the state. Jammu And Kashmir Under Siege: Security Lockdown, Communication Blackout And UT Status Leave Kashmiris With No Autonomy.

"Tourists desirous of undertaking visiting to the state shall be provided all necessary assistance and logistical support," said the Home Department's notification. On October 8, Governor Malik directed that the Home Department's advisory asking tourists to leave the Valley be lifted from October 10. He took the decision during a security review meeting with the Advisors and the Chief Secretary. NSA Ajit Doval on Article 370 Repeal: Majority of Kashmir Supporting Move, 92.5% of J&K Freed of Restrictions.

On August 5, the Modi government revoked certain provisions of Article 370 and Article 35A and withdrew Jammu and Kashmir's special status. Prior to the unprecedented move, the state administration had asked tourists to leave the Valley, issuing a security alert over possible terrorist attacks. Communication services were snapped and a curfew was imposed hours before the Centre announced its Article 370 move.

When the advisory was issued, according to reports, nearly 25,000 tourists were present in Kashmir as it was peak tourist season. Tourism has been the backbone of the state's economy. The sector, however, is going through one of its worst phases since August. Now that the Valley has reopened for tourists, the tourism sector is expected to get a new lease of life.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 10, 2019 11:38 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).