Patnitop proposed for Centre’s globally competitive tourism destination scheme: Omar

Master Plan revision initiated; Unified Building Bye-Laws, 2021 already in force in PDA jurisdiction

Srinagar, September 25: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has proposed Patnitop for consideration under the Centre’s Globally Competitive Tourism Destination Scheme, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah informed the J&K Legislative Assembly on Thursday.

Replying to a question raised by Chenani MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia during Question Hour of the ongoing Autumn Session, the Chief Minister clarified that the Government of India has not declared Patnitop a world-class tourism destination.

He said a preliminary survey to identify suitable land parcels, along with comprehensive stakeholder consultation conferences, had been completed for the proposed initiative. The requisite ground data and basic details were currently being compiled, while no funds had so far been sanctioned or released by the Centre for the project.

Master Plan revision underway

On the revision of the Patnitop Development Authority’s (PDA) Master Plan-2000, Omar Abdullah said the Tourism Department had initiated a comprehensive revision process covering various Development Authorities, including the PDA.

The exercise aims to address rapid urban growth, modern infrastructure requirements and sustainable spatial development, while improving land use, public amenities and long-term development planning.

The Chief Minister said the Request for Proposal (RFP), finalised by the Government-constituted Steering Committee, had been floated to engage a consultancy agency for preparation of the Master Plan.

Review of construction norms

Regarding construction norms for hilly areas, the Chief Minister said these could be reviewed wherever required during the preparation or revision of Master Plans.

The review would take into account local terrain, geological and structural safety, environmental sensitivity, carrying capacity, infrastructure requirements and tourism potential.

On the proposed revision of Building Operations and Control Authority (BOCA) norms for commercial buildings within the PDA jurisdiction, he said any changes to construction norms, zoning regulations, land-use classifications or other planning parameters would be considered in accordance with applicable laws and regulations, following due assessment and stakeholder consultation.

He also informed the House that the Unified Building Bye-Laws, 2021, had already been implemented within the jurisdiction of the Patnitop Development Authority.

Building permission cases

Providing details of building permission cases received during the past two financial years, the Chief Minister said the PDA had recorded the following figures:

The Chief Minister further informed the Assembly that, according to available records, 14 residential and two commercial building permission cases had subsequently been received.