No proposal for separate Uri Tourism Authority: Govt

Srinagar, Feb 12: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Thursday said there is no proposal under consideration to establish a separate Tourism Development Authority for Uri in Baramulla district, while adding that promotion of border and eco-tourism in the area will be taken up in phases.
Replying to MLA Dr. Sajad Shafi’s query, J&K government, acknowledged that Uri has appreciable tourism potential, particularly in border tourism, eco tourism, pilgrimage linked travel and nature based experiences.
The government stated that the department is aware of the vast potential in the constituency, especially in border tourism, wildlife and natural beauty. J&K government, however, clarified that no proposal is currently under consideration for establishing a dedicated authority to ensure planned promotion, regulation and infrastructure development in the area.
The government said Uri offers scope for border area tourism experiences, trekking routes, scenic and nature based visitation, waterfalls and heritage linked circuits, subject to accessibility and visitor facilitation arrangements.
On future plans, the government informed the House that promotion of border tourism and eco tourism in Uri, including the Boniyar Uri belt, will be undertaken in a phased manner, subject to policy approvals.
The department said it is focusing on environmentally sustainable and community based tourism interventions. Emphasis is being laid on low impact initiatives such as homestays, aimed at generating livelihood opportunities for local youth while ensuring environmental conservation.
It further said that registration of homestays under notified guidelines is being facilitated across North Kashmir, including remote and border areas. So far, five homestays have been registered in the Boniyar Uri area, reflecting initial progress towards inclusive tourism development in the border region. (KNO)