Srinagar, Mar 10: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, on Monday, stated that the ongoing ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) and the international border has played a crucial role in reviving tourism in the border areas.
Responding to a question from Member Sajad Shafi about Uri, the CM, who also oversees the tourism portfolio, said that peace in these regions is contributing to the growth of tourism, particularly in areas like Uri. “As stability returns to these border areas, tourism is steadily increasing,” he said.
Omar Abdullah acknowledged Uri’s significant potential for border tourism, with visitors already flocking to scenic spots like Aman Setu and other picturesque locations. He assured that the government is focused on improving the region’s tourism infrastructure.
Regarding a potential zipline or cable car project from Lagama to Baba Farred Garkote in Uri, the Chief Minister stated that while the Tourism Department would assess the project’s feasibility, no such proposal is currently under consideration.
The CM also shared plans for developing tourist spots such as Rustom and Nambla Waterfalls, which could be included in the Border Tourism Program, depending on resources and feasibility. He emphasized the growing importance of adventure tourism in the region, pointing out popular destinations like Bijham and Limber Waterfall/Limber Wildlife Sanctuary that attract adventure enthusiasts.
In response to a query about paragliding activities, Omar Abdullah clarified that while the Tourism Department does not directly manage paragliding, it works with private operators to promote these activities. The government also runs programs to train future paragliding instructors, with permits granted following feasibility checks.
The Chief Minister further informed that camping sites are being developed at the Gantamulla reservoir along the River Jhelum, as part of the government’s efforts to expand tourism in the region.
The government has already developed several key tourism facilities, including a tourist cafeteria and information center (TIC) at Boniyar, another cafeteria at Salamabad in Uri, and a tourist reception center (TRC) at Salamabad. Additionally, the Eco-Park Khadinyar’s damaged cafeteria has been rebuilt.
