Bring Margan Top, Daksum on tourism map: CM

Tribune News Service

Jammu, November 22

Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has issued directions to the Tourism Department to focus on places such as Daksum, Margan Top, Kongawaten and other areas for tourism promotion.

She also directed setting up of an expert group to suggest measures to control the decline in the height of world famous Aharbal Falls.

Addressing a joint meeting of the Aharbal, Kokernag and Verinag Tourism Development Authorities here today, the Chief Minister said the potential of areas such as Daksum, Margan Top, Kongawaten, meadows of Noorabad and other places should be exploited. She said Daksum had been blessed with unparallel scenic attraction besides a wildlife sanctuary which could make a great tourist attraction.

Expressing concern over the reports of dwindling level of famed Aharbal Falls, she issued directions to set up an expert group comprising subject experts and engineers to study the problem and come up with suggestions to arrest the decline in the height of the falls.

Mehbooba further issued directions to start white water rafting, introduction of ecotourism and showcasing ethnic culture at these places to attract and sustain the tourist footfall. She also directed raising more facilities of public convenience along the roads to these places.

The Chief Minister directed resolving the issues of bus stands of Achabal and Kokernag besides the entrance of Aharbal at the earliest.

Other issues discussed include the development of a pony track from Kungwaten to Guriwatan and construction of a footbridge at Sangam, connecting the area with Shopian, along with the finalisation of the Master Plans of these places for an onward action on the same.

As a specific direction, she asked the Tourism Department to include restoration of shrines, mosques, temples and gurdwaras at these tourist destinations as part of the beautification activity. Mehbooba issued directions to instal streetlights on main roads, markets and gardens of these tourist spots to enhance the appeal of these places.