Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Tourism and Culture, Nawang Rigzin Jora, during a day-long excursion tour of Gulmarg in North Kashmir on Monday, said that up-gradation of tourism related infrastructure at par with international standards, to tap tourism potential of the destination, is afoot. Gulmarg has become one of the world's highest lift-served ski resort, providing a downhill ski run of over five kms from a height of 14000 feet in Apharwat range. However, to explore fully the potential of this premier hill resort, a chairlift from Kongdoori-Marrishoulder of Apharwat would be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 9 Crore, reported UNI. The construction work would be started next month, said Jora.
The minister, during a Gondola ride to Kangdoori and Apharwat, assessed the required development of infrastructure. He said the state’s highest altitude cafeteria, an Igloo-type hut, would be constructed at Apharwat. However, in order to protect the environment of Gulmarg-Kungdoori corridor, aforestation will also be taken up at a cost of Rs 1 Crore and old chairlift will be made functional for tourists visiting the area.
Giving details about infrastructure expansion programme in the area, the Minister said creation of more infrastructure, is needed at Gulmarg and its surrounding tourist resorts. He said 20 rooms in the budget accommodation category will be constructed at a cost of Rs 4 Crore. Besides, the conversion of old Maharaja palace into a convention centre will be also taken up at a cost of Rs 2 Crore, the minister said, adding that underground cabling of electric network and improvement of water supply is also on anvil in the area.
Source : ProjectsToday
|