Srinagar: Chairman Peoples Democratic Front (PDF) and former Minister Hakeem Muhammad Yaseen has expressed his anguish over the “poor performance of tourism development authories (TDAs) of Tossamaidan, Doodhpathri and Yusmarg” constituted in 2004.
These TDAs have not been able to build the necessary tourism infrastruction at these places and though a large number of tourists were inclined to visit these virgin tourist spots but get disappointed after confronting lack of adequate facilities there, he said.
He also expressed concern that the Tourism Department had not rationalised rates for pony wallas at these tourist places “to check fleecing of tourist by the unscrupulos elements”.
“Similarly , entry tickets at these places have been fixed at the sweet will of bidders, causing shock for incoming tourists” , he said, adding, “One is unable understand why entry fees is colllected at three points from incoming tourists at Doodhpathri”.
Hakeem Yaseen said TDAs should immediately do away with this wrong practice which overburdens the visitors.
Hakeem Yaseen also said the condition of roads and power supply at these tourist places was “worst ever” which becomes the cause of disenchanment for the visiting tourists. He said if the Goverment would not improve basic facilities at these tourist places, it could lead to a decline in the tourist arrivals therby affecting livelihood of the local populace.
Building adequate tourist infrastructur at Tossamaidan, Doodhpathri and Yusmarg to ensure better tourist influx was imperative to provide livelihood to the local people ,“ Hakeem Yaseen maintained while urging the Government especially the Tourism Department to reactivate these Tourism Development Authorities.
PDF Chairman also demanded construction of Gandola project and Golf course at Doodhpathri which, he said, stand approved since 2006.
He said these projects would enhance the recreational facilities for the tourists and would also enhance livelihood opportunities for the locals.
Likewise, Gondola Project from Nilnag – Yusmarg and Dragdollan was also surveyed and approved but the concerned authorities have put these vital tourist projects into backburner, he alleged.
