Traders in Srinagar’s Lal Chowk Launch Unique Campaign: ‘Avoid Liquor, Drugs’
In a bid to promote responsible tourism and preserve the cultural ethos of Kashmir, traders in Srinagar’s bustling Lal Chowk have launched a unique campaign urging tourists to avoid consuming liquor and drugs. The Central Lal Chowk Traders Association has taken this initiative to ensure a peaceful and pleasant environment for both locals and visitors.
The Campaign Details
The campaign involves the installation of signboards and billboards across Lal Chowk, welcoming tourists while requesting them to respect local culture and traditions. The signs read: “Welcome, dear tourists. The Traders Association, Central Lal Chowk, invites you to experience the beauty of our heaven on earth! For a memorable and enjoyable trip, we kindly request: Love and cherish your family. Avoid liquor, drugs, spitting on roads, and smoking. Respect our culture and traditions. Stay blessed and enjoy your time in our enchanting city.”
Reasons Behind the Campaign
Bilal Ahmad, president of the Central Lal Chowk Traders Association, explained that the initiative was launched following repeated incidents of tourists consuming alcohol in the area and engaging in altercations, particularly with their families. “Shopkeepers in Lal Chowk frequently witness drunk tourists quarrelling with their families. Women and children are often seen crying and distressed. As hosts, we welcome all visitors, but we strongly urge them to avoid alcohol consumption to ensure a peaceful and pleasant environment for everyone,” Ahmad said.
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Support from the Community
Shirar Ahmad Mir, the Association’s general secretary, also supported the initiative, stressing the importance of maintaining the city’s cultural ethos while ensuring a safe experience for all visitors. “We hope this message will promote responsible tourism and encourage visitors to respect Kashmir’s traditions while enjoying their stay in the Valley,” he said.
Positive Reception
The initiative has been welcomed by both locals and tourists. Faisal Dar, a local resident, expressed his support for the campaign, stating, “We want tourists to come here and enjoy, but the culture and tradition of this place should also be respected. Drinking alcohol or consuming other intoxicants is harmful for health, so one should refrain from it.” A tourist, Sujata, added, “If you are coming with family, roam around and enjoy. What will you get by consuming intoxicants? But, if you have come with friends and you want to enjoy a little, then do it sitting in the hotel. It does not look good to do something like this in the open.”
Bottom-Line
The traders’ campaign in Lal Chowk is a commendable effort to promote responsible tourism and preserve the cultural heritage of Kashmir. By urging tourists to avoid liquor and drugs, the traders aim to create a harmonious environment that benefits both locals and visitors. This initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting local traditions and contributing to the well-being of the community.
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