Move follows deadly terror attack that shook tourist confidence
Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have introduced a QR code-based identification system for tourism service providers in Pahalgam, aiming to enhance the safety and confidence of visitors.
The initiative comes in the aftermath of a deadly attack last year in the Baisaran meadow, where 25 tourists and a local pony-ride operator were killed in an incident linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba.
How the QR system works
Officials said the system enables easy identification and verification of registered service providers, including pony operators, vendors, hawkers, and business establishments.
Each authorised individual has been issued a unique QR code after police verification and official registration.
An official said,
“Each service provider has been properly vetted by police, registered by the authorities and has been provided a unique QR code that contains personal information and other details about that person,”
Tourists can scan the QR code using their mobile phones to access details such as name, address, mobile number, Aadhaar number, registration status, operational route, and police verification status.
Boost to security and trust
Authorities believe the system will help prevent fraud and ensure that only authorised individuals operate in the tourism sector.
An official said,
“The system helps identify tourism providers and ensure that visitors are dealing with an authorised service provider. Before trusting an individual, the tourists can scan the QR code and check the details about that person.”
He added,
“This will help them verify the credentials of the service provider, thereby building their trust and also improving the security environment,”
Stakeholders welcome move
Tourism stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, calling it a positive step towards improving safety and authenticity.
A service provider, Ghulam Hassan, said,
“All our details, addresses, etc., are there, which are linked to the local police station. Security forces check our QR codes periodically to ensure only genuine, registered, and properly verified service providers are operating,”
Another service provider said,
“Tourists will feel safer as they will have complete information about the service provider. This is a good initiative that will strengthen the security and safety of tourists,”
Officials added that vendors from outside the region have also been verified and registered to prevent any security lapses.
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