Jammu, Mar 22: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Saturday outlined key incentives aimed at boosting the infrastructure of Patnitop, one of the most popular tourist hubs in the region.
In response to a question raised by MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia in the Legislative Assembly, the government informed the House that the Patnitop Development Authority (PDA) was established in 1992 under Section 4 of the Jammu & Kashmir Development Act, 1970, to develop Patnitop as a prominent tourist destination.
The government further revealed that 72 villages across two districts fall under the jurisdiction of the Patnitop Development Authority. A master plan for the development of the area has been prepared and notified under SRO 117, categorizing zones for agriculture, commercial use, construction, and no-construction areas in major settlements.
“The formulation of the master plan for 14 villages is actively under consideration and is one of the department’s top priorities,” the government stated.
Regarding the permission process for construction and renovation under the PDA jurisdiction, the government clarified that all building permits are granted by the Building Operations Controlling Authority Committee, headed by the Deputy Commissioner of the concerned area. The permits are issued in accordance with the land use outlined in the Master Plan notified under SRO 117.
On the development of the Mantalai International Yoga Center, the government informed the House that the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, has sanctioned the ‘Integrated Development of Mantalai-Sudhmahadev-Patnitop Circuit’ project at a cost of ₹92 crore. The project was entrusted to the National Projects Construction Corporation (NPCC) and has been completed at a cost of ₹89.59 crore.
The government also highlighted various initiatives taken by the Department of Tourism to promote Patnitop, Sudhmahadev, Gouri Kund, Mantalai, Latti, Ladha, Nathatop, and Sanasar as major tourist destinations. These include infrastructure upgrades such as the widening of the circular road in Patnitop, road improvements at Kasalghoom Naag Temple, installation of water ATMs, viewing points, washrooms, LED street lights, and a musical fountain at Patnitop.
To further enhance the tourist experience, a 9-hole golf course and eco-friendly bamboo huts are being developed in Sanasar. The integrated development of Mantalai and Sudhmahadev under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP) is also in progress.
The Patnitop ropeway has proven to be a major attraction, drawing a substantial number of visitors. Additionally, the government has initiated the promotion of adventure tourism and the development of trekking routes in these areas.
