Early Times Report
Srinagar, Nov 1: Asserting that the ‘Comprehensive Mansar Rejuvenation Plan’ worth Rs 198.37 crore is aimed to increase the tourist influx that will facilitate the socio-economic development of Jammu and Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said efforts are underway to make J&K India’s most preferred tourist destination.
The Lieutenant Governor made these remarks after inaugurating “Comprehensive Mansar Rejuvenation/Development Plan” through virtual mode in presence of MoS, PMO, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr Jitendra Singh, an official spokesperson said here on Sunday evening.
“Jammu and Kashmir has the potential to become a preferred tourist destination and this sector can support a much higher employment work force. The UT Government is working on a strategic plan for growth & development of tourism sector in J&K. With numerous heritage sites, world- class infrastructure and promotion of adventure sports, we can achieve the tag of India’s most preferred tourist destination,” Mr Sinha said.
“We are also expanding the Skill Development Programme for hospitality industry so that tourists have a positive experience of travelling and enjoying the hospitality of our Union Territory,” he added.
The LG said the Jammu and Kashmir has abundant wealth in terms of water bodies, adding the Government is working rigorously for conservation and preservation of water bodies in Jammu and Kashmir and is taking comprehensive measures for restoring their ecosystem.
“Mansar and Surinsar are the most sought after tourist destinations visited by the tourists in Jammu. It is in the close vicinity of from Katra, Holy City of Mata Vaishno Devi where more than 1.00 Crore Pilgrims from all parts of the country and abroad visit on yearly basis. Mansar is of immense importance from Pilgrimage as well Heritage point of view besides being the most scenic attraction due to vast Mansar Lake and its wildlife sanctuary and flora & fauna. The implementation of its Rejuvenation/Development Plan will certainly bring Mansar on the world tourism map,” he added.
“Comprehensive Mansar Rejuvenation/Development Plan after its implementation will provide a big boost towards increase in the number of Tourists/pilgrims from around 10 lakhs in the year 2019-2020 to 20 lakhs; Employment generation of around 1.15 crore approximately; Income generation of approximately 800 crore per year; Development of Mansar and its surrounding hamlets in terms of socio-economic upliftment and better future of the residents of the locals- collectively bringing Mansar on the world tourism map,” the Lt Governor said.
He said the UT Government has approved Rs 16.50 Crore under CAPEX budget against 13 components and the remaining components will be completed under Central Government’s SWADESH DARSHAN. “We are targeting to complete the project within a period of 5 years,” he said.
“The prestigious project comprises Sub-Project/Components like establishment of Tourist Facilitation Centre, Development of Wellness/Naturopathy Centre, Restoration of Mansar Haveli and Narsingh Temple, Ornamental Entrances, Development of pathway/drainage channel along the banks of the Lake as per the Wild Life norms, Avian Fauna Gallery with Bird Watcher Lodge, Packaged STP’s, Zip Line, High Mast Lights, Security Cameras, Musical Water Fountain, Wi-Fi connectivity, Rock Climbing, Open Air Gym, Upgradation of Mansar Sub-Station, Development of Sheshnag temple, Amusement Park, Upgradation of internal roads, suitable Parking facility besides upgradation of footpaths, jetties and boating facility in the Mansar Lake etc. as per the requirement from Tourism point of view,” he added.
He directed the officers concerned to take requisite measures for creating adequate facilities for the visiting tourists and put in place a robust mechanism to preserve religious, cultural and environmental significance of the lake.
“I am thankful to the Prime Minister for taking the historic step of developing our rich Cultural, Historical, Natural and Religious Heritage into World Class Tourist Destinations,” said the Lt Governor.
He said Tourism contributes about 7 per cent of the GDP of Jammu Kashmir; the revival of Tourism Sector is our top most priority; new policies will help in value creation and profitability for the local businesses. “In the last two months, the UT Government, in consultation with officers and stakeholders, is working on bringing tourist spots of J&K in World Tourism Map. We are implementing the recommendations made by the committee constituted in the month of August for development of tourism sector and for the welfare of all those associated with the sector,” he continued. |
