Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have introduced a QR code-based identification system for tourism service providers in Pahalgam in a bid to strengthen tourist safety and rebuild visitor confidence after last year’s deadly terror attack in the resort town.
Officials said the system allows tourists to easily identify and verify genuine and registered service providers, including pony-ride operators, hawkers, business establishments and outside vendors.
The move comes nearly a year after the April 22 attack at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, in which 25 tourists and a local pony-ride operator were killed.
Tourists can scan the QR code using their mobile phones to access complete details of the service provider.
They said the initiative is aimed at curbing fraud and ensuring that no unauthorised persons claim association with the tourism sector.
According to officials, the QR code contains the service provider’s name, parentage, detailed address, mobile number, Aadhaar number, registration number, operational route and police verification status.
Tourism stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, saying it will help assure visitors and improve transparency.
