Bandipora, July 24: In a significant development, the long-pending demand for the opening of Chakwali-Mushko Valley Road is set to become a reality after decades of its closure.
The opening of the road from Chakwali village of Gurez Valley of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district to Mushkil Valley of Kargil district of Ladakh Union Territory will ignite hope for enhanced tourism and trade opportunities between Gurez Valley and Kargil district.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Dr Owais Ahmed told Rising Kashmir that the Border Roads Organization (BRO) is diligently working on the road connection which will bridge the gap between the two regions.
For decades, the closure of Chakwali-Mushko Valley Road has posed challenges to the connectivity between Gurez Valley and Kargil, hindering both tourism and trade prospects. However, with the initiation of the road construction, a new chapter will unfold which will hold the promise of socio-economic transformation for the regions, he said.
While highlighting the road’s significance as a potential circuit for tourists traveling from Srinagar, Dr Owais said that with the road linking Sonamarg, Kargil, and Gurez Valley, tourists can embark on a journey through the breathtaking landscapes of these regions. The road’s completion will enable visitors to explore the beauty of Bandipora’s tourist destinations and embrace the essence of its cultural heritage, he added.
“We envision a seamless flow of tourists from Srinagar to Sonamarg, then Kargil, and finally Gurez Valley,” the DC said, adding that this well-connected circuit will not only captivate tourists with the majestic landscapes but also enrich their experience with the diverse cultural and historical significance of the regions.
“The opening of Chakwali-Mushko Valley Road has been a long-cherished dream for the people of Gurez and Kargil,” Arshid Ahmad, a local told Rising Kashmir. This road will not only boost tourism but also facilitate trade and commerce, opening up new opportunities for growth and development, he said.
Arshid said that the improved accessibility will not only facilitate tourism but also encourage trade and commerce between Gurez Valley and Kargil district. “With easier transportation of goods and services, the region’s economic activities are expected to witness a substantial boost,” he said.
