Jammu, Mar 4: On Tuesday, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced that the government will work towards creating pilgrim tourism circuits in Jammu, aimed at encouraging visitors to the Mata Vaishnodevi shrine to explore additional tourist spots in the area.
Highlighting that around one crore pilgrims visit the Vaishnodevi shrine each year, Abdullah stated that if the government successfully redirects 10 to 15 percent of these pilgrims to various local attractions, it would greatly benefit the community.
“In terms of the pilgrim tourism circuit in Jammu, we will develop packages lasting three, four, and seven days. Our goal is to promote these locations to ensure that pilgrims venture out to visit them all,” Abdullah explained during the assembly session.
In response to a question from BJP MLA Yudhvir Sethi during the Question Hour, he remarked that many pilgrims are unaware of the pilgrimage tourism options available in the region.
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of encouraging visitors to the Mata Vaishnodevi temple to also explore other nearby attractions.
“We face the challenge of redirecting pilgrims to various sites within the Jammu region. Our current efforts have not yet succeeded in persuading these pilgrims to explore other areas,” he noted.
Abdullah pointed out that Jammu boasts unique destinations that require better visibility and pledged that efforts would be made towards this goal.
He outlined that the tourism department has been actively focused on enhancing tourism infrastructure in Jammu city to draw more visitors, executing several initiatives under the State Capex Budget and the Swadesh Darshan Scheme.
He mentioned prominent tourism-related infrastructure projects under various schemes, including the development of musical water fountains featuring sound and light shows at Bagh-e-Bahu and tourist facilities at Bhagwati Nagar.
Other projects cited include improvements at Sidhra Golf Course, the construction of an amusement park adjacent to Sidhra Golf Course, a ropeway project extending from Mohmaya to Bagh-e-Bahu, and various developmental plans set forth under the Capex Budget for 2024-25 in Jammu.
Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL) has been proactive in implementing multiple projects aimed at enhancing Jammu’s infrastructure, thereby making it a more attractive destination for tourists, as shared by the Chief Minister.
He presented significant infrastructure projects undertaken by JSCL, including heritage conservation and beautification endeavors that encompass the restoration of notable landmarks such as Bahu Fort, Mubarak Mandi, and Raghunath Bazaar, along with temples and ghats as part of the Smart City initiative and other historical sites.
Regarding advancements in road and transport, Abdullah highlighted the upgrading of major thoroughfares, the development of walkable pathways, and the launch of electric buses for sustainable public transport.
He also underscored the redevelopment of the Tawi riverfront, which will feature promenades, cycling tracks, and leisure areas.
Concerning historical buildings and the Tawi bridges, he indicated that plans are in progress for facade lighting at Bahu Fort, the Army headquarters at Mubarak Mandi, Maha Maya Temple, and all Tawi bridges.
The Chief Minister remarked that JSCL’s vision is centered around transforming Jammu into a modern, tourist-friendly, and sustainable city while preserving its rich cultural and historical heritage.
