Ganderbal, Oct 15: The Jammu and Kashmir Government is working to develop Sonamarg as a year-round tourism destination, with plans to promote rafting during summer and skiing, skating and other winter sports during the colder months, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Thursday.
“With the construction of the tunnel, Sonamarg is now accessible throughout the year. We want to promote rafting during summer and skiing, skating and other winter sports activities,” Omar told reporters during his visit to Ganderbal.
He said he would work with Kangan MLA Mian Mehar Ali to strengthen Sonamarg’s presence on the tourism map and expand activities to attract visitors throughout the year.
The Chief Minister acknowledged that forest, environmental and wildlife clearances could delay tourism projects but said the government would follow the required procedures while developing new destinations.
During his visit, Omar said development projects worth around Rs 60 crore had either been inaugurated or had their foundation stones laid in Ganderbal.
On the proposed bridge over the River Jhelum, estimated to cost Rs 40 crore, he said test piling had been completed and efforts were underway to meet the construction deadlines.
“We are making efforts to complete the pillars by April and the entire bridge by December next year,” he said.
The Chief Minister also said several road projects, a new school building and infrastructure works at the Fruit and Vegetable Mandi were inaugurated during the visit.
He said traders at the mandi had raised demands for its expansion, construction of a boundary wall and a grade separator. The matter had been discussed with officials of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), while other demands had also been taken up for necessary action, he added.
On the demand for fencing the Power Development Corporation (PDC) canal following repeated incidents involving loss of human lives, Omar said the issue would be raised with the concerned authorities.
“If the decision were within my authority, I would have announced it here. We will raise the public demand with the concerned authorities,” he said.
Regarding pending compensation cases linked to National Highway projects, the Chief Minister said newly appointed Deputy Commissioner Shreya would examine the matter after settling into her responsibilities.
He also acknowledged traffic congestion along the Beehama–Kheer Bhawani road, where Chinar trees have been a concern for commuters, and called for a solution that balances infrastructure needs with environmental protection.
“Development and environmental protection must go hand in hand. We may have to remove some trees and plant eight to ten Chinar trees elsewhere, away from roads,” Omar said.
Referring to the 70th National School Sports event being held at the College of Physical Education in Ganderbal, he said students from across the country were participating in Wushu and Taekwondo competitions.
The Chief Minister also reiterated that commitments made to families affected by land acquisition would be honoured, saying the government would implement the terms agreed upon in writing.
“Whatever commitments were made in the signed agreements will be implemented,” he said.
