GUREZ, JULY 31: The two-day Gurez festival organized by the Department of Tourism and District administration Bandipora which concluded successfully here today saw an overwhelming response from the locals and the tourists.
The festival marked the display of rich art, craft, culture, heritage and sports activities.
Several Government Departments including the Department of Handicrafts, Handloom, NRLM, Fisheries, Forests, Agriculture, Horticulture, Indian System of Medicines and Tourism had installed stalls to showcase local products. The stalls attracted a large number of people who not only purchased several products but were also informed about the rich heritage and culture of the Gurez valley.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Tourism Kashmir Nisar Ahmad Wani said Gurez has tremendous tourism potential and the Department is in process to upgrade infrastructure facilities to attract more tourists to the picturesque valley.
He said the Department has been making every effort to promote the beautiful Gurez valley at Travel Trade Fairs, Roadshows and has published extensive publicity material to showcase its culture, heritage, art and craft in addition to its scintillating beauty.
He also said that Gurez has huge potential for adventure tourism as many bikers and hikers visit the place exploring its idyllic beauty.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Shahbaz Ahmad Mirza also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the measures being taken to develop infrastructure in Gurez Valley.
On the concluding day, bikers and cyclists who travelled through hilly terrain through Razdan pass to reach Dawar in Gurez valley were also facilitated.
Deputy Director Enforcement Amarjit Singh, Deputy Director M&W Zahoor Ahmad, Deputy Director Publicity Riyaz Ahmad, Deputy Director Recreation Sarfaraz Mohammad and other concerned were also present.
