Govt committed to develop unexplored, emerging tourist destinations across J&K: Sakeena Itoo

Kulgam, May 9: In a significant step towards promoting tourism and strengthening public infrastructure in the scenic area of Panchanpatri (Hompathri) of Kulgam district, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare and Education, Sakeena Itoo Saturday inaugurated several tourism-related facilities in the area to enhance visitors experience.
The Minister, on the occasion, inaugurated a newly constructed passenger shed at Panchanpatri tourist resort developed by the Rural Development Department (RDD) for the convenience of visitors and tourists. She also dedicated a newly established viewpoint at Panchanpatri (Humpathri) to the public, aimed at enhancing the overall tourism experience and showcasing the natural beauty of the area.
ACD Kulgam, Chief Education Officer, Chief Medical Officer, other senior officers of district administration and large number of locals were also present on the occasion.
Addressing a large gathering, the Minister said that the Government is committed towards developing unexplored and emerging tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir and ensuring that modern facilities are created for both tourists and local residents.
She added that Panchanpatri (Humpathri) and adjoining areas possess tremendous tourism potential due to their scenic landscapes, serene environment and rich natural heritage and our Government is determined to tap this potential to create livelihood opportunities for local communities.
“Omar Abdullah-led Government is working with a focused vision to transform tourism into a major driver of economic growth and employment generation in Jammu and Kashmir. The development of basic infrastructure and public amenities at tourist destinations is essential for attracting more visitors and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities,” Sakeena Itoo stated.
She further said that the Government is making concerted efforts to improve road connectivity, tourism infrastructure and civic amenities in remote and rural areas so that these regions are brought onto the tourism map of Jammu and Kashmir.
“Our aim is not only to promote tourism but also to ensure inclusive development and socio-economic upliftment of the people living in these areas,” she added.
During her visit, Sakeena Itoo also interacted with local residents who apprised the Minister about various developmental issues and demands related to infrastructure, tourism facilities and public services in the area. The locals sought augmentation of tourism-related infrastructure, better road connectivity and other public utility services for Panchanpatri and surrounding villages.
Giving a patient hearing to the grievances and demands raised by the people, the Minister assured them that all genuine issues would be examined on priority and necessary measures would be taken for their early redressal. She reiterated that the Government remains committed towards equitable and holistic development of all regions of Jammu and Kashmir with special emphasis on strengthening rural infrastructure, improving public services and creating employment avenues for youth.
The Minister also emphasized the need for preserving the ecological and environmental significance of tourist destinations while undertaking developmental activities. She called for coordinated efforts between the concerned departments and local stakeholders to promote sustainable tourism in the region.
Earlier, the Minister also visited Khuribatpora area of the district and met the families affected by recent fire incident. She expressed deep solidarity with them during this difficult time. She assured the victims that the Government stands firmly with them and all possible assistance and support would be extended to help them recover from the losses suffered in the incident.
Reiterating the Government’s commitment towards the welfare of the people, Minister Sakeena Itoo directed the concerned authorities to ensure that necessary support reaches the affected families without delay.