POONCH: In a significant push towards sustainable development and environmental conservation, Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today laid the foundation stone for a series of eco-tourism and infrastructure projects in the Mendhar and Surankote areas of Poonch.
The initiatives, undertaken by the Department of Forest, Ecology & Environment, mark a concerted effort by the government to harness the area’s natural beauty while ensuring ecological balance and community participation.
Senior departmental officials and local residents were present on the occasion.
Among the key projects was development of an Eco Park at Shahstar, with an estimated cost of ₹90 lakh under the SASCI scheme. The park is envisioned as a hub for nature-based tourism, offering the visitors an immersive experience while fostering environmental awareness and conservation practices.
To strengthen the field operations and improve monitoring capabilities, an Inspection Hut will also be constructed at Shahstar at a cost of ₹20 lakh under CAMPA. Additionally, a Block Officer Quarter at Pahar Masjid, to be built under the CAPEX budget at ₹35 lakh, will enhance the Forest Department’s presence in the area and provide better residential facilities for staff.
Further boosting eco-tourism infrastructure, the Minister laid the foundation for a trekking route complemented by cafeteria facilities to be developed at an estimated cost of ₹6 lakh under the CAPEX budget. This project is expected to attract more adventure enthusiasts while creating livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Collectively, these projects amounting ₹1.51 crore, have been designed to integrate the conservation efforts with economic development.
Speaking on the occasion, the Minister emphasized that the initiatives would open up sustainable employment avenues for the local youth as tourist guides, hospitality worker and service providers while also increasing the visitor footfall and regional revenue.
“These projects reflect our firm commitment to preserve our natural resources while simultaneously creating opportunities for sustainable tourism and improving the livelihoods of local communities,” the Minister said.
He added that strengthening forest infrastructure would enable departmental personnel to carry out conservation works more effectively.
Highlighting the long-term vision, the Minister stated that such initiatives would help position Mendhar and Surankote as promising destinations for eco and adventure tourism in Jammu & Kashmir, drawing in visitors seeking pristine landscapes and authentic experiences.
Rana also issued strict directions to the executing agencies to ensure the timely completion of all projects. He emphasised the need for mai maintaining accountability and quality in work execution. He called for strict adherence to the set technical standards and warned against any compromise in construction practices or material quality.