Minister of State for Education and Tourism Priya Sethi today called for concerted efforts to boost tourist footfall in Bhaderwah by making it an independent leisure destination.Talking to media-persons at Tilligrah, the Minister said that leading tour operators of the country will soon be invited to have firsthand appraisal of various tourist spots in the area. She said Bhaderwah is an ideal destination which can attract tourists from neighboring states in large numbers.Highlighting the steps taken by the government to give flip to tourism in Bhaderwah, the Minister said various tourism projects are in pipeline to attract tourists which include water sports at Pul Doda, Cable Car, Golf Course and camping at Jai and renovation of Bhaderwah Fort. She reiterated the governments’ commitment to bring Bhaderwah on the tourism map on the pattern of other tourist destinations of the state.
Priya Sethi further informed that the Bhaderwah festival will be organized this summer to showcase the heritage and culture of this beautiful Valley. She also said that ropeway project for Seoj Dhar is under consideration of government and the concerned department has been asked to prepare DPR.Placing high priority on increasing tourist footfall at Bhaderwah, Padri and Jai, she stressed upon creating cluster of villas for night-bound tourists, without disturbing the environment.MLA Bhaderwah Daleep Singh Parihar, while speaking on the occasion, said Bhaderwah has immense tourism potential which needs to be harnessed and equally promoted.“We have to keep up the developmental pace in comparison to various other states, he said and urged the Minister concerned to release extra funds for tourism promotional campaigns of Bhaderwah .MLA Chhamb, Dr KL Bhagat, Chief Executive Officer, BDA Balkrishan, CEO Doda and other officers were also present on the occasion.