Department fails to develop Akhnoor as tourist destination

Tribune News Service

Jammu, December 8

The dilapidated condition of places of tourist interest in Akhnoor along Chenab River exposes Tourism Department’s oft-repeated tall claims of bringing historical places in Jammu on the tourist map of India.

Recently, Lt Governor’s advisor KK Sharma revived infrastructure development at two historical places — Ambran, ruins of ancient Buddhist site and Jia Pota, the place where foundation of Dogra empire was laid — calling for improving basic infrastructure to make it attractive for tourists. But for years, several plans announced have failed to bring any visible changes.

Ambran, where the ruins of Buddhist Stupa were excavated in early 2000 AD, is yet to pique the interest of tourists. In fact, its surrounding area has not seen any beautification plan.

Similarly, the historic Jia Pota Ghat is facing similar situation and stray cattle can be seen roaming along its structures.

Lack of coordination between the Tourism Department and district administration, which has failed to promote these sites, is a major hindrance in the way of making Jammu an independent tourist destination.

“For years, we are hearing that efforts are under way to bring Jammu on the pilgrimage map, as the region is replete with historical religious sites. But they have remained only as commitments. The truth is before you,” said Naresh Sharma, who runs a travel agency in Jammu.

A few tourists who visit the place on the advice of travel agencies return dejected. “I visited Akhnoor for the first time in 2010 with a group of students and in 2019 again with my family. Nothing has changed. The condition is even more deplorable,” said Gaurav Batra from Pathankot, Punjab.

Director Tourism, Jammu, Deepika Sharma was not available for comments.