Early Times Report
JAMMU, Nov 25: Gaurav Gupta, former Secretary General of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has lauded the visit of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to the Tawi River Front Project site, commending the administration for achieving 90 percent completion of 1st Phase and likely completion of the said Phase in January 2025.
In a statement issued here today, Gaurav Gupta, who recently held a meeting with LG Manoj Sinha, emphasized the need for the project's timely completion, urging prioritize completion of this project in January 2025, having much potential to bring tourism footfall in Jammu. Highlighting its importance, he stated, "The Tawi River Front Project has immense potential to boost tourism and the economy of Jammu. It will serve as a key attraction for visitors and elevate Jammu's status as a tourism destination."
He said that today's visit by the LG to the artificial lake site demonstrates his seriousness toward the early completion of this much-awaited project, which holds immense potential to transform Jammu's tourism landscape and bolster the region's economy.
While appreciating ongoing development initiatives, he expressed concern over the economic challenges faced by Jammu, particularly in light of the upcoming direct train connectivity to Srinagar and the near exhaustion of Rs 28,400 crore Central Package. He remarked, "Jammu's economy is under stress, and the region risks being overshadowed unless robust steps are taken to capitalize on its unique tourism potential."
Gaurav proposed the establishment of a comprehensive tourism circuit in Jammu region, akin to the popular circuits in Srinagar, which include Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Gulmarg and other tourism places. "Tourists visiting Jammu must have a well-structured circuit encompassing destinations like Shiv Khori, Utterbehni - Purmandal, Patnitop, Mansar, Bagh-e-Bahu, Suchetgarh Border and several tourism destinations in Doda-Kistwar-Bhadarwah and Kathua," he said, stressing the need to create an itinerary that encourages longer stays and greater economic engagement in the region.
Gaurav called for proactive efforts to connect Jammu's travel agents with counterparts in other states to promote the region's attractions. "Collaborations between Jammu's travel operators and those in other parts of the country will help position Jammu as a must-visit destination on the national tourism map," he suggested.
With the Tawi River Front nearing completion, Gaurav remains optimistic about its transformative impact but reiterated the need for consistent efforts to sustain Jammu's economy. "This is a step forward, but a larger vision is needed to truly harness Jammu's tourism potential and secure its economic future," he added. |
