Hoteliers seek govt word on Jammu cable car project

Tribune News Service
Jammu, May 3

Members of All Jammu Hotels and Lodges Association (AJHLA) on Friday alleged that there was a ‘conspiracy’ to delay the opening of the first-ever cable car project in Jammu. The association also demanded that the government make public the report of a magisterial inquiry into the January 20 accident, after which the inauguration of the project was stalled.

Three months ago, two workers had died and six others were injured in an accident after which the government ordered an inquiry. Since then, there has been no word from the administration on when the project would be inaugurated.

The association has appealed to Governor Satya Pal Malik to take up the issue with the officials concerned so that the cable car was made operational as it could boost tourism and create employment opportunities.

“The project has been completed and a trial run was done but after the unfortunate accident in January, there is no clarity from the government about when the project will be made operational,” said Inderjeet Khajuria, chairman of AJHLA.

The association said in view of the ensuing tourist season and upcoming Amarnath yatra, the city would witness tourist influx but there were no avenues for visitors to enjoy their stay in the city.

Association president Pawan Gupta urged the authorities to save tourism in Jammu. The stakeholders were facing economic losses due to lack of publicity and promotional activities to highlight potential spots in the region, he said.

The association claimed that tourism sector was facing a downfall and the economy of Jammu was under huge pressure. “Thousands of families dependent on hospitality sector are facing the threat of losing employment and if no steps are taken, the situation will worsen in the coming years,” Gupta added.