Srinagar, Sep 27: The Jammu and Kashmir government has said it is actively exploring and promoting new and emerging tourist destinations across the Union Territory, with a specific focus on the Bandipora constituency to decongest established tourist circuits.
In a written reply to a starred question tabled by MLA Nizam-ud-din Bhat in the Legislative Assembly, the Tourism Department as per Kashmir Convener stated that several lesser-known destinations have been identified for infrastructure development and promotion.
“The government is actively exploring, developing and promoting new and emerging tourist destinations across the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, including the Bandipora constituency, with the objective of diversifying the tourism circuit, decongesting established tourist destinations and promoting lesser-known destinations,” the reply stated.
The department informed the House that locations such as Aharbal, Bangus, Gurez, Tosamaidan, Daksum, Chatpal, Sanasar, Basohli, Rajouri, Mansar, Baradari, Suchetgarh, and Poonch are being promoted to broaden the region’s tourism footprint.
Highlighting specific interventions for the Bandipora constituency, the government said it is promoting the tourism potential of Athwatoo, Wular Lake and its adjoining areas, including Zurimanz, Wular Vantage Park and Watlab.
“The Department has also taken up several infrastructure projects in Bandipora, including a Tourist Cafeteria at Watlab (Village Khensusa), Watapora Park, Wular Vantage Park at Garoora, and Budget Accommodation at Athwatoo,” the reply said.
Furthermore, the government has approved the construction of view points along both banks of Nallah Bunar from Chandaji Village downwards at an estimated cost of Rs 50.00 lakh under the Priority Works Plan. The preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is currently underway.
Additionally, a Water Sports Centre-cum-Boat Club at Wular Lake is also being taken up during the current financial year.
Responding to a supplementary query on whether existing destinations are being upgraded, the government affirmed that existing sites are being progressively developed to improve tourist facilities and enhance the overall visitor experience.
“The development interventions envisage the provision of basic tourist amenities including public conveniences, drinking water, seating, signage and visitor information facilities,” the reply said. It added that focus is also on landscaping, beautification, and the development of viewpoints and recreational facilities.
To ensure sustainable growth, the government said it is promoting eco-tourism, adventure, rural and water-based tourism while strictly keeping in view the carrying capacity of each destination. The department is also focusing on cleanliness, waste management, and the promotion of homestays to enhance local community participation.
The requisite resources for these activities are being met through the Annual Capex Budget and funding from the Government of India under central sector schemes, including Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, and PMDP, the reply added.
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