Kupwara: Once known primarily for its breathtaking landscapes along the Line of Control (LoC), Keran Valley has rapidly emerged as one of Kashmir’s most sought-after offbeat tourist destinations. Its pristine beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and unique border tourism experience have attracted thousands of visitors in recent years. However, despite the tourism boom, poor mobile and internet connectivity continues to remain a major challenge for both tourists and local residents.
In today’s digital era, where online payments, digital bookings, navigation, and instant communication have become an integral part of daily life, the lack of reliable network services in Keran is causing significant inconvenience. Tourists often struggle to make digital payments at hotels, restaurants, and local shops, as cashless transactions frequently fail due to unavailable internet connectivity.
Local businesses, many of which have embraced digital payment platforms, say they lose customers because online transactions often cannot be completed. The network issue also affects emergency communication, access to online services, and routine digital activities, creating hardships for residents.
A local shopkeeper said, “Tourism has improved our livelihood, but poor connectivity is affecting business. Many visitors don’t carry enough cash because they expect to pay digitally. When the network fails, both tourists and shopkeepers face difficulties.”
Another resident added, “Almost every essential service today depends on the internet. Students, traders, and families all require reliable connectivity. Better network infrastructure is now a necessity, not a luxury.”
Tourists visiting the valley echoed similar concerns.
A tourist from Delhi said, “Keran is one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited, but the biggest challenge is the lack of network. We couldn’t make online payments or even contact our families regularly. Better connectivity would greatly improve the overall tourist experience.”
A visitor from Mumbai remarked, “Most people no longer carry much cash. We rely on UPI and digital payments everywhere. In Keran, network connectivity becomes a major inconvenience despite the valley’s incredible beauty.”
With tourism steadily increasing and Keran gaining recognition as a premier offbeat destination in Kashmir, residents and visitors alike have urged the authorities and telecom service providers to strengthen mobile and internet infrastructure in the area . They believe that improved connectivity would not only enhance the visitor experience but also support local businesses, education, healthcare, and the overall socio-economic development of the border area.
