The Union Government has rolled out a significant set of initiatives aimed at transforming the tourism landscape of Jammu and Kashmir. This strategic push includes a major financial package and the development of new tourist circuits to enhance connectivity and visitor experience in the region.
Mughal Road Project: A Rs 1,400 Crore Game-Changer
At the heart of the announcement is a massive Rs 1,400 crore project dedicated to the development of the iconic Mughal Road. This historic route, connecting the Jammu region's Poonch and Rajouri districts with the Kashmir Valley's Shopian, is set for a comprehensive upgrade. The project will focus on improving infrastructure, safety, and amenities along the corridor, facilitating smoother travel and boosting tourism potential in some of the Union Territory's most scenic areas.
Creating New Tourist Destinations and Circuits
Beyond the Mughal Road, the plan involves the creation of several new tourist circuits designed to disperse tourism and highlight lesser-known gems. A key focus is on developing the Rajouri district as a prominent tourist destination in its own right. Furthermore, the government is actively working on establishing a cross-border tourist circuit linking Suchetgarh in Jammu to the renowned Kartarpur Sahib corridor. This initiative holds promise for promoting religious tourism and enhancing regional connectivity.
Additional circuits are in the pipeline, including one that will connect the historical city of Jammu to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, and another exploring the Buddhist heritage trail. These efforts are aligned with the broader goal of offering diverse experiences to visitors, from pilgrimage and spirituality to heritage and adventure.
Broader Vision and Implementation
The initiatives were highlighted by Union Minister of State for Tourism, Shri Shripad Naik, during a session in the Lok Sabha. The minister emphasized the government's commitment to integrated development, where tourism acts as a catalyst for economic growth and employment generation in Jammu and Kashmir. The approach involves close collaboration between the Union Tourism Ministry and the local administration of the Union Territory to ensure effective planning and execution.
These announcements signal a robust phase of investment and strategic planning for Jammu and Kashmir's tourism sector. By improving critical infrastructure like the Mughal Road and creating new, structured travel circuits, the government aims to not only increase tourist footfall but also ensure its benefits reach wider geographical areas within the region. The move is expected to bolster the local economy, create jobs, and present a renewed image of the Union Territory as a multifaceted tourist hub.
