Pahalgam Attack Aftermath: QR-Based IDs for Service Providers

Jammu and Kashmir authorities have introduced a QR code-based identification system for tourism service providers in Pahalgam to improve visitor safety following last year’s deadly militant attack. The system allows tourists to verify the identity and credentials of registered service providers, including pony-ride operators, hawkers, shopkeepers and outside vendors, PTI reported, citing officials. The move comes after an attack in the Baisaran meadow area in April last year that killed 25 tourists and a local pony-ride operator. Authorities said the initiative is aimed at restoring confidence among visitors to the popular resort in Anantnag district.“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," an official said.

Tourists can scan the QR code using their mobile phones to access complete details about the individual, officials said, adding that the system is designed to prevent fraud and ensure that only authorised people operate in the tourism sector.“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.“This will help them verify the credentials of the service provider, thereby building their trust and also improving the security environment," an official said.According to officials, the QR codes include details such as name, parentage, address, mobile number, Aadhaar number, registration number, operational route and police verification status.

Tourism stakeholders welcomed the move, saying it would enhance both safety and credibility.“The overall security has been strengthened after last year’s attack. As far as service providers are concerned, we have been given QR codes after document verification; our Aadhaar numbers are linked as well,” said Ghulam Hassan, a service provider."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,” Hassan said.Another service provider, who did not wish to be named, said all workers, including pony operators, photographers and vendors, have been issued QR codes after verification."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," he said.Officials added that vendors from outside Jammu and Kashmir have also been vetted by police to avoid any security lapses.