Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Dec 6: A team of officials from the Tourism Department Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC), and Jammu & Kashmir Cable Car Corporation on Saturday formally took over the charge of tourist facilities at Shikargah Tral and Naristan Aripal, to “strengthen” tourism infrastructure in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district.
The process was carried out under the supervision of Deputy Director Tourism Kashmir, Sheikh Enayat (JKAS), who oversaw the official handing-over of assets and facilities to the Tourism Department.
Officials said that the move is part of the government’s renewed push to expand tourism activities in unexplored and scenic destinations of Kashmir, particularly in offbeat areas like Shikargah and Naristan, which have recently gained attention for their natural beauty and adventure potential.
“We aim to strengthen facilities in these serene pockets of Pulwama so that they emerge as promising tourist hubs,” a tourism official said, adding that streamlining administrative control will help ensure better maintenance, promotion, and service delivery.
Local residents and stakeholders expressed hope that the takeover will finally pave the way for systematic development, increased footfall, and new livelihood opportunities.
“Shikargah and Naristan have always had huge potential, but the lack of facilities kept tourists away. Now that the Tourism Department has taken over, we expect better infrastructure, more visitors, and employment avenues for youth,” said a resident of Tral.
Another shopkeeper from Aripal said that even small interventions—like improving pathways, sanitation, and signage—could dramatically change tourist movement in the area.
Officials said that the Tourism Department is likely to frame a development plan focusing on eco-tourism, village stays, trekking routes, and adventure-based activities. “With proper planning, these destinations can attract nature lovers, trekkers, and families looking for peaceful retreats,” an official said.
The formal transfer of these facilities is expected to streamline coordination between different agencies and remove administrative delays that previously hampered development.
