The Jammu and Kashmir administration has outlined tourism infrastructure development plans worth over Rs 58 crore for Kupwara district, aiming to enhance border and eco-tourism in key areas such as Lolab Valley, Bangus Valley, Keran, Machil, and Teetwal. The announcement was made by the central government in response to a query in the Rajya Sabha.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Union Minister for Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, stated in the Rajya Sabha that while the development of tourist destinations is primarily the purview of the respective state or Union Territory governments, the Ministry of Tourism offers financial assistance. This assistance is provided through schemes like Swadesh Darshan, Swadesh Darshan 2.0, Challenge Based Destination Development, and PRASHAD, contingent upon approved project proposals, fund availability, and adherence to established guidelines.
The Jammu and Kashmir administration is actively pursuing planned and sustainable development of Kupwara’s burgeoning tourist spots, with a strategic focus on eco-tourism, border tourism, adventure tourism, and community-based tourism initiatives. This approach seeks to leverage the region’s natural beauty and unique geographical positioning to attract a diverse range of visitors.
According to details presented in the Rajya Sabha, the proposed projects encompass the construction and renovation of essential tourism facilities. These include Tourist Facilitation Centres, Tourist Reception Centres, guest houses, tourist huts, interpretation centres, cafeterias, and public convenience facilities. Specific locations targeted for these upgrades are Teetwal, Keran, Karnah, Machil, Lolab, Bangus, Zachaldara, Langate, and Handwara.
Among the key projects slated for implementation are the establishment of a Tourist Facilitation Centre at Teetwal, comprehensive development of tourism facilities in Keran, renovation of existing guest houses and huts within the Lolab Valley, and the upgrading of tourism infrastructure at Zachaldara, Langate, and Handwara. Additionally, significant improvements are planned for the facilities along the route leading to Bangus Valley, a region known for its scenic vistas and trekking opportunities.
The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has also been actively engaged in promotional activities designed to position Kupwara as a premier destination for border and eco-tourism. These initiatives include the organization of events such as International Yoga Day celebrations, familiarisation tours for media and tour operators to Keran, the annual Lolab-Bangus Festival, and focused promotion of border destinations. The department has also participated in national and international tourism fairs to showcase the region’s potential. These efforts are aimed at enhancing the visitor experience, fostering local employment opportunities, and promoting sustainable tourism practices that benefit both the environment and the local communities.
The Union Ministry of Tourism continues its nationwide efforts to promote diverse tourist destinations, including those within Jammu and Kashmir, through targeted marketing campaigns in key domestic and international markets. These overarching marketing strategies aim to attract a wider audience and boost the overall tourism sector in the country.
The planned infrastructure development and promotional activities underscore a concerted effort to transform Kupwara’s lesser-known locales into recognized tourist attractions, capitalizing on their proximity to the border and their inherent natural appeal.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
