Srinagar, Mar 05: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday said it has taken several steps to promote tourism in Ramban constituency, with a special focus on Sanasar, Patnitop and Batote.
The initiatives include infrastructure development, adventure tourism and beautification projects, the government said while responding to a question from MLA Ramban, Arjun Singh Raju.
“Paragliding and trekking activities are being promoted in Sanasar and Patnitop. Short videos and pictures of these destinations are also being showcased at national and international travel marts to attract more tourists,” the government said.
A Tulip Garden in Sanasar, built at a cost of Rs 4.15 crore and a musical fountain in Patnitop, worth Rs 45.46 lakh have been developed as key tourist attractions, it said, adding that plans are also in place for the beautification of Sanasar Lake, which will include a decorative waterfall, a laser show, and an advanced musical fountain by 2025-26, at an estimated cost of Rs 6.84 crore. A 9-hole golf course is also being developed in Sanasar for Rs 17.35 crore to promote golf tourism.
The government said it is working on developing new tourist spots in Ramban, with the Capex Budget 2024-25 funding the construction of huts, shelter sheds, parks, wayside amenities and renovation of religious sites. The Patnitop Development Authority is also upgrading the Sanasar Lake, golf course, and public conveniences at Patnitop and Sanasar to improve visitor facilities, it added.
Regarding the inclusion of Sarvadhar, Ladhadhar, Shankhpal and Pashtati in the official tourism map, the government said that efforts are being made to assess and develop these locations.
The Tourism Department has already set up wayside amenities at Sarvadhar meadow and Paristan (Ramban), the government said, adding that Shankhpal is gaining popularity as an adventure tourism and trekking destination, with established routes from Sanasar and Pancheri.
On the issue of Dak Bungalow Ramban, the government said no official record declares it unsafe. However, the building is in a severely dilapidated condition, as it has not been renovated in over 20 years, it said, adding that a proposal for its reconstruction and renovation will be prepared in consultation with the Public Works (R&B) Department, considering the commercial interests of JKTDC.
The government said it is committed to boosting tourism in Ramban to ensure infrastructure improvements and identify new attractions to attract visitors.
