Kulgam, June 12 -- The prolonged closure of Aharbal tourist destination in south Kashmir's Kulgam district has severely impacted the livelihoods of local tourism stakeholders, prompting renewed calls for its reopening.

As per news agency-Kashmir News Observer (KNO), while tourism operators and traders report mounting financial distress, Cabinet Minister Sakina Itoo has urged Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to reopen the destination, while authorities have strengthened security with the installation of a 360-degree surveillance camera.

Known as the 'Niagara of Kashmir,' Aharbal is a major tourist attraction and a key source of income for hundreds of local families.

The destination has remained shut following security concerns, even as t...