The Department of Tourism (J&K) and District Administration Poonch on Friday hosted Jabbi Virsa Folk Festival to promote tourism in the Peer Panjal region.The festival was flagged off from Jabbi Base Camp by DDC Chairperson, Tazim Akhter; Deputy Commissioner, Yasin M. Choudhary; BDC Chairperson Mandi, Shamim Ganai; Senior Superintendent of Police Vinay Sharma in the presence of CEO Poonch Development Authority, Dr Mohd Tanveer; Cultural Officer, Dr Alamdar Adam and all district officers.
At the base camp, the Social Forestry Department, under the supervision of DFO, Naveed Iqbal conducted a plantation drive. The drive was launched by the Chairperson District Development Council, Deputy Commissioner and Senior Superintendent of Police by planting a tree.
The festival featured musical folk lores, Geets, Baits and other cultural activities presented by the local artists. The event was a great success and highlighted the beauty and potential of the Peer Panjal region for tourism.
The festival was a part of the one-day trekking expedition from Jabbi Base Camp to Jabbi Toti Top, which saw the participation of over 1000 local trekkers. During the expedition the trekkers including DDC Chairman, DDC, SSP and other government functionaries explored the natural beauty along the Jabbi Base Camp to Jabbi Toti track.
The expedition was aimed at promoting tourism in the region and improving the infrastructure to attract more tourists. The locals warmly welcomed the DDC Chairperson,Deputy Commissioner, BDC chairperson, Senior Superintendent of police, district officers, tourists, and trekkers and expressed their happiness.
During the trekking camp, the DC inspected the tourist park at the base camp of Jabbi and the spot identified by the Sports Council to develop a playground. The Deputy Commissioner assured the public that the tourist park would be completed soon, and the road works would be given priority to promote tourist infrastructure and attract more tourists.
On reaching the Jabbi top, the trekkers relished the scenic views and serene environment surrounded by lush green surroundings. They also enjoyed horse riding and the wonderful nature.The Deputy Commissioner expressed happiness and appealed to the people to preserve the natural beauty and keep it clean.
He assured that the district administration will also contribute fully to develop the place as a major tourist destination.The festival and trek also featured a cricket match between Rahul Dravid Cricket Academy and Arai Cricket Club in Jabbi Toti Top, where the Deputy Commissioner interacted with the players.
The local trekkers expressed their gratitude to the District Administration, Poonch Development Authority and Academy of Art Culture and Languages for making them a part of the camp and showcasing the tourism potential of the region.
The Jabbi Virsa Folk Festival was an excellent addition to the trekking expedition and helped in promoting the rich cultural heritage of the region to a wider audience.