Nilnag to get tourism infrastructure push; Yusmarg link road proposed

Ziraat Times News Desk

BUDGAM, AUGUST 21: Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker and Charar-i-Sharief MLA Abdul Rahim Rather on Thursday visited Buzgoo and Nilnag areas of Budgam district and called for faster development of tourism infrastructure and improved road connectivity to unlock the region’s tourism potential.

During his interaction with local residents, Rather reviewed developmental needs and concerns, with particular focus on tourism, roads and drinking water supply.

Nilnag development plan proposed

Discussing the development of Nilnag Lake, the Speaker stressed the need for a modern and sustainable tourism model, supported by adequate visitor facilities and infrastructure.

He said Nilnag has the potential to emerge as a major tourist destination while creating sustainable livelihood and income-generation opportunities for local communities.

Rather said Rs 71 lakh has been proposed for tourism-related infrastructure during the current year, including parks, fencing, gates and walkways. The works, he said, are aimed at improving the overall visitor experience and infrastructure at the destination.

He also said a comprehensive development plan would be pursued for Nilnag and the adjoining tourism belt to ensure planned infrastructure development and improved facilities.

Focus on Yusmarg-Nilnag connectivity

The Speaker said efforts would be made to strengthen connectivity between prominent tourist destinations, particularly through the proposed development of the Barinibal Road connecting Yusmarg with Nilnag.

He said improved connectivity would enable visitors to conveniently access both destinations and help integrate the tourism circuit.

Rather also said the Bamilbal-Yusmarg and Dobal-Yusmarg roads would be explored in response to public demand to facilitate the movement of local residents and tourists.

He further said the Maharaja Road has been projected for development at an estimated cost of Rs 12 crore, which is expected to improve connectivity and access to the surrounding areas.

The macadamisation of the Nagam-Nilnag road is also scheduled to commence shortly. Rather directed the concerned agency to ensure early completion so that the road becomes traffic-worthy at the earliest.

Call to review closure of tourist destinations

The Speaker also raised the issue of the closure of tourist destinations, including Yusmarg, Doodhpathri and Tosamaidan, saying the move had adversely affected tourism-related activities, livelihoods and the local economy.

He asked the concerned authorities to review the decision in the larger public interest, keeping in view its economic impact on communities dependent on tourism.

Buzgoo roads, school infrastructure

Rather directed that link roads in Buzgoo be macadamised to facilitate smoother movement of residents and improve internal connectivity, with priority to roads requiring immediate attention.

He also said Rs 30 lakh has been provided for construction of a boundary wall around the High School, with the work to be taken up on priority to provide a secure environment for students and staff.

Interacting with residents, Rather assured them that infrastructure and essential services, particularly roads, drinking water and tourism facilities, would be strengthened.

Water supply work to start tomorrow

On drinking water, the Speaker said efforts would be made to ensure adequate and reliable supply under the Kalnag water supply scheme, which is expected to benefit a large number of households in the area.

He informed residents that the balance work on the water supply scheme would commence on Friday and be completed within one month.

Rather was accompanied by CEO, Yusmarg Development Authority, Riyaz Ahmad Beigh; SE, Jal Shakti Department, Shazia Majid; Executive Engineer, PHE Chadoora, Mohammad Younis, and other officers of line departments from Chadoora and Charar-i-Sharief sub-divisions.