Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather on Monday reviewed a comprehensive development plan for the Yousmarg tourism circuit and discussed measures to strengthen tourism infrastructure and visitor facilities in the area.
Chairing a meeting with senior Tourism Department officials, Rather reviewed proposals aimed at developing Yousmarg and adjoining destinations, including Drugtolen, Bargah, Haijan and Nilnag Lake.
The Speaker stressed the need for planned and sustainable tourism development while preserving the natural environment of these destinations.
He called for improved public amenities at Yousmarg, including reliable mobile connectivity and installation of an ATM to facilitate tourists and local residents. He also proposed the installation of a ski drag lift to support winter sports and training activities.
The meeting also reviewed plans for the development of Nilnag Lake. Rather directed officials to prioritise de-weeding of the lake and develop the surrounding area with suitable tourist infrastructure while maintaining its ecological balance.
Highlighting the need for better connectivity, the Speaker stressed early completion of the sanctioned bridge over the Doodh Ganga River linking Haijan with Yousmarg, saying it would improve accessibility and benefit both tourism and local communities.
Rather also proposed the development of cable car projects connecting Yousmarg with Nilnag, Drugtolen, Haijan and Bargah. He said these projects would promote adventure tourism and strengthen a pilgrimage tourism circuit linking the shrines of Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA) at Charar-i-Sharief and Hazrat Syed Ali Aali Balki (RA) at Pakherpora.
He also emphasised the need to complete the remaining stretch of the road to Haijan to improve connectivity and unlock the tourism potential of the area.
Tourism Department officials assured the meeting that the proposals would be examined and taken up for phased implementation to strengthen tourism infrastructure and generate employment in the region.
