Srinagar, June 29: Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, today chaired a detailed meeting with senior officers of the Tourism Department to review and discuss a comprehensive development plan aimed at transforming Yousmarg into one of the premier tourist destinations of Jammu and Kashmir.
During the meeting, extensive deliberations were held on strengthening tourism infrastructure, enhancing visitor amenities, and fully harnessing the immense tourism potential of Yousmarg, Drugtolen, Bargah, and Haijan.
The Speaker stressed the need for a planned and sustainable approach to ensure that these picturesque destinations are developed while preserving their natural beauty and ecological balance.
Emphasizing the importance of improved public amenities, the Speaker called for the provision of reliable mobile connectivity and the installation of an ATM facility at Yousmarg to facilitate tourists and local residents alike.
He also advocated for the installation of a ski drag lift to support ski trainees and promote winter sports activities, thereby enhancing Yousmarg's appeal as a year-round tourism destination.
The meeting also reviewed the development of the scenic Nilnag Lake. The Speaker directed that the lake and its surrounding areas be developed into an attractive tourist destination with appropriate infrastructure while maintaining its pristine environment. He stressed that de-weeding of the lake should be undertaken on priority to preserve its cleanliness and natural charm.
Highlighting the need for better connectivity, the Speaker emphasized for the early completion of the santioned bridge over the Doodh Ganga River connecting Haijan with Yousmarg. He observed that the project would significantly improve accessibility, boost tourist inflow, and provide substantial socio-economic benefits to the local population.
The Speaker further underscored the importance of developing cable car projects linking Yousmarg–Nilnag, Yousmarg- Drugtolen, Yousmarg–Haijan, and Yousmarg–Bargah. He noted that, Yousmarg being nearest toursit destination to Srinagar has immense potential to emerge as a major tourism hub.
He observed that these projects would not only strengthen adventure and leisure tourism but also promote a unique pilgrimage tourism circuit, as the route passes through the revered shrine of Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA) at Charar-i-Sharief and the shrine of Hazrat Syed Ali Aalie Balki (RA) at Pakherpora.
The Speaker also stressed the need for the early completion of the remaining portion of the road to Haijan, stating that improved road connectivity is essential for unlocking the tourism potential of the area and ensuring ease of access for visitors and local communities.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the Tourism Department to examine the proposals in a time-bound manner and take necessary steps for the phased development of the Yousmarg tourism circuit, with the objective of strengthening tourism, generating employment, and promoting sustainable economic growth in the region.