Jammu, March 28: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday said that the Karnah region possesses immense potential for tourism, particularly in the areas of border tourism, hiking and trekking, and the government is working on a comprehensive plan to promote the sector in the area.
The Chief Minister made these remarks while replying to a supplementary question raised by the MLA Karnah during the Question Hour of the ongoing Budget Session of the J&K Legislative Assembly.
Highlighting the natural beauty of Karnah, he said the region offers significant scope for tourism development. He added that the government is formulating a structured programme aimed at unlocking its tourism potential in a sustainable manner.
Holding the Tourism portfolio, the Chief Minister stressed the importance of promoting grassroots-level tourism infrastructure. He underlined that the focus should be on developing homestay facilities rather than constructing large hotels, stating that such an approach would prove more beneficial for the local population.
Acknowledging concerns raised by the local representative, he admitted that remote areas like Karnah require greater attention in terms of tourism promotion. He noted that despite its scenic appeal, the region’s remoteness has limited the extent of development so far.
Clarifying reports regarding a proposed cable car project from TD Drangyari to Zarla via Sadhna Pass, the Chief Minister said no such proposal is currently under consideration by the Tourism Department.
He also cautioned against the assumption that installation of cable cars automatically leads to increased tourist footfall. Referring to destinations like Gulmarg, Jammu, Srinagar and Patnitop, he pointed out that despite gondola facilities in several locations, Gulmarg continues to attract a significantly higher number of visitors.
The Chief Minister emphasized that any such project must be backed by proper planning and feasibility, warning that unviable infrastructure would not benefit the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to tourism development, he said efforts are underway to bring lesser-known destinations onto the tourism map, subject to feasibility and resource availability.
He further highlighted key initiatives undertaken in the Karnah constituency, including the construction of a tourist cafeteria and public convenience at Drangyari, organisation of a Winter Carnival in January 2023, and a Mega Yoga Festival at Teetwal in June 2024. He said these measures are aimed at increasing tourist footfall and generating livelihood opportunities for the local population.
