EARLY TIMES REPORT
JAMMU, MARCH 25 – Modalities were discussed for the urgent renovation and preservation of historic Bhimgarh Fort at Reasi and development as a tourist destination, at a high level meeting held under the Chairmanship of the Governor, N. N. Vohra, here today.
Addressing the meeting, the Governor emphasized the need for taking a holistic view for the time-bound restoration of the Bhimgarh Fort, adding that the project should gel with the broader framework of promotion of tourist circuits, such as the Katra-Reasi-Shiv Khori circuit, and also linking Bhimgarh Fort with tourism facilities at Salal, Aghar Jitto and Dera Baba Banda. He said that the Fort should be restored from the architectural point of view to restore its grandeur as a monumental example of the rich Dogra heritage. The Governor said that the facilities to be created in the complex should be conceived in harmony with the over all aesthetics of the area.
Several other suggestions were made in the meeting such as holding of light and sound programmes, setting up of an open air theatre, developing parks and utilizing the place for promoting local cultural activities.
The Governor asked the INTACH for preparing a comprehensive plan for restoration of the Fort complex and called upon the Tourism Department to work on the development of related facilities and the required logistical support. It was decided in the meeting that the entire effort will be multi-agency and multi-dimensional under the over all aegis of the State Government Tourism Department, for its timely execution and monitoring.
The Governor said that efforts should be made to divert pilgrims visiting the Holy Shrine of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, and halting at Katra, to the Fort Complex. Also, school children and locals could visit the spot, once the added attractions are put in place, which would also provide a significant impetus to the economy of the area.
Among those who participated in the meeting included Principal Secretary to Governor and Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, B. B. Vyas, Secretary Tourism, Ms. Tanvir Jehan, District Development Commissioner, Reasi, Sanjeev Verma, Additional Commissioner, Jammu, Mrs. Sunita Sharma, Director Tourism, Jammu, S. M. Sahni, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, SMVDSB, Varinder Slathia, Convener, INTACH, Jammu & Kashmir Chapter, Salim Beg and other senior officers. |
