Srinagar, May 04: In a bid to further enhance the tourism potential of Wular Lake, the Wular Conservation and Management Authority (WUCMA) has installed a floating jetty in the Saderkote area of Bandipora which has become a popular attraction for tourists.
The initiative to install the floating jetty comes as part of WUCMA’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable tourism and conservation of the lake.
Already known for its diverse wildlife, including migratory birds and aquatic species, Wular Lake has been a hotspot for eco-tourism and birdwatching enthusiasts with surrounding areas boast of lush greenery and ancient heritage sites, adding to the allure of the destination.
Wular Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia has long been a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Over the years, the lake has emerged as a prominent tourist destination, attracting visitors from far and wide to experience its natural beauty and rich biodiversity.
The introduction of the floating jetty has not only provided a convenient access point for tourists but has also had a positive impact on the livelihoods of the locals.
Traditionally dependent on activities such as chestnut harvesting and fishing, the locals have now embraced the burgeoning tourism industry by offering boat rides to visitors to ferry them to the floating jetty.
“The floating jetty has transformed our lives. Previously, we relied solely on chestnuts and fishing for our livelihood, but now, tourism has opened up new opportunities for us,” said Mushtaq Ahmad, a local.
The jetty, which floats on the calm waters, has become a hub of activity, with shikaras ferrying visitors from the banks of Wular to this new marvel. “It’s like we’ve been given a new lease on life,” said Ghulam Hassan, a local fisherman, “The jetty has brought so many visitors, and our shikaras are busy all day.”
Our income has doubled since the tourists started coming,” he said. “They love the boat rides and the tranquility of the lake.”
“We are thrilled to see the growing interest in Wular Lake as a tourist destination,” a WUCMA official told Rising Kashmir. “The floating jetty is just the beginning of our efforts to unlock the full potential of this natural wonder. We are committed to preserve its ecological integrity while providing memorable experiences for tourists and generating sustainable income for the local residents.”
“Our goal was not just to create a tourist attraction but to revitalize the community. The floating jetty is part of a larger plan to develop sustainable tourism in Wular Lake”, he said.
Plans for a second jetty in the Zurimanz area are already underway which will promise further growth and prosperity for the people residing on wular Banks, he added.
