Jammu, Feb 6 (.) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday said the prolonged closure of several tourist destinations has caused distress among local youth, and the government is considering a relief package to support those affected.
Replying to Khansahib Saif ud Din Bhat in the Assembly during Question Hour regarding the closure of tourist spots in his constituency, the CM said internationally known destinations like Doodpathri, Tosamaidan and Yousmarg have remained closed to tourists for about nine months following security-related considerations.
The Chief Minister said he would take up the issue of reopening these tourist destinations with union Home Minister Amit Shah, who is now in J& K.
Abdullah, who holds the Tourism portfolio, stated that the prolonged closure has adversely affected the local economy and severely impacted the livelihood of ATV operators, vehicle owners, ponywalas, stall owners, guides and other stakeholders dependent on tourism activities in these areas.
He added that the continued closure has caused distress among local youth, including those who had availed loans from various financial institutions for running tourism-related businesses at these destinations.
The Chief Minister said the matter of reopening Doodpathri, Tosamaidan and Yousmarg involves security considerations, which are beyond the mandate of the Tourism Department now.
He further informed that a letter from the MLA Khansahib in this regard has been forwarded to the Deputy Commissioner Budgam for appropriate action.
Due to an unfortunate incident at Pahalgam and the consequent restrictions imposed by the District Administration, the Snow Skating Games at Doodpathri could not be organised, the Chief Minister said.
Regarding the ropeway project at Tosamaidan, Abdullah informed that the Gondola/Ropeway Project has been proposed by the PWD (R&B) Department through National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) under the Parvatmala Scheme.
Meanwhile the Chief Minister, while replying to another question raised by Gurez Nazir Ahmed Khan, said his government continuously monitors staffing positions across all regions to ensure smooth functioning of offices and effective delivery of public services.
He informed the House that posts in the Gurez area are to a large extent filled up as per the sanctioned strength, and staff are posted strictly in accordance with the prescribed rules and procedures.
Abdullah, who also holds the General Administration portfolio, stated, “The Government is taking necessary steps to address vacancies and ensure smooth delivery of public services.” . VBH .