Srinagar, Mar 10: The Jammu and Kashmir government stated on Monday that it is currently assessing the feasibility of adventure tourism projects in the Uri region, though no concrete proposals are under consideration at this time.
The details were shared in a written response to a starred question by Dr. Sajad Shafi, National Conference legislator and MLA from Uri, in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly.
In response to Dr. Shafi’s inquiry about the potential establishment of a Zipline and Cable Car project from Lagama to Baba Fareed Garkote in Uri, the government clarified that there is no proposal under review at present. However, it acknowledged that the concerned department would evaluate the feasibility of such projects in the future.
Regarding the development of Rustom and Nambla Waterfalls under the Border Tourism Programme, the government said that while the development of these locations is not immediate, it will be considered in the future, subject to feasibility studies and the availability of resources.
The government also highlighted several key tourism destinations in the region. It noted that Bijham is often referred to as “Mini Gulmarg,” while Limber Waterfall and Limber Wildlife Sanctuary are known for adventure tourism and home to the endangered mountain goat (Markhor). These areas attracted around 50,000 tourists in 2024, the government confirmed.
The government outlined steps taken for the holistic development of tourism in Uri, including the promotion of paragliding activities, which are currently being operated by private adventure tourism operators with permits issued by the Tourism Department. Capacity-building programs for adventure tourism trainers are also underway, and camping colonies are being established at the Gantamulla reservoir along the River Jhelum, subject to the necessary permissions.
Addressing the issue of residential huts in several tourist spots such as Uroosa, Aman Setu, Rustum Baba Fareed, and others, the government clarified that no huts have been constructed in these areas, nor are there any current proposals for such projects.
However, the government highlighted several ongoing infrastructure developments in the region, including the construction of Khadiniyar Park, a tourist cafeteria and Tourist Information Centre (TIC) at Boniyar, another cafeteria at Salamabad in Uri, and a Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) at Salamabad. The damaged cafeteria at Eco-Park Khadiniyar has also been rebuilt, the reply stated.
On the topic of trekking routes, such as those from Uri Baba Fareed to Kandi Salamabad, Sungali Danna, Boniyar, Chutali Gulmar, and Gingal to Bosiyan-Gowashar, the government indicated that there are no immediate proposals. However, such projects could be considered in the future, depending on tourism feasibility and funding availability.
