Gaurav urges for holistic tourism circuit in Jammu region

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 25: Emphasizing the need for timely completion of Tawi River Front project, Gaurav Gupta, former Secretary General of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry has reiterated the need for consistent efforts to sustain Jammu’s economy by truly harnessing its tourism potential.
In a statement issued here today, Gaurav Gupta said that Tawi River Project has much potential to bring tourism footfall in Jammu. “This project has immense potential to boost tourism and the economy of Jammu. It will serve as a key attraction for visitors and elevate Jammu’s status as a tourism destination,” he said and lauded LG Manoj Sinha’s visit to the artificial lake project.
Gaurav said that today’s visit by the LG demonstrates his seriousness toward the early completion of this much-awaited project, which holds immense potential to transform Jammu’s tourism landscape and bolster the region’s economy.
While appreciating ongoing development initiatives, he expressed concern over the economic challenges being faced by Jammu, particularly in light of the upcoming direct train connectivity to Srinagar and the near exhaustion of Rs 28,400 crore Central Package. “Jammu’s economy is under stress, and the region risks being overshadowed unless robust steps are taken to capitalize on its unique tourism potential,” he opined.
Gaurav proposed the establishment of a comprehensive tourism circuit in Jammu region, akin to the popular circuits in Srinagar, which includes Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Gulmarg and other tourism places. “Tourists visiting Jammu must have a well-structured circuit encompassing destinations like Shiv Khori, Utterbehni – Purmandal, Patnitop, Mansar, Bagh-e-Bahu, Suchetgarh Border and several tourism destinations in Doda-Kistwar-Bhadarwah and Kathua,” he said, stressing the need to create an itinerary that encourages longer stays and greater economic engagement in the region.
Gaurav called for proactive efforts to connect Jammu’s travel agents with counterparts in other States to promote the region’s attractions. “Collaborations between Jammu’s travel operators and those in other parts of the country will help position Jammu as a must-visit destination on the national tourism map,” he suggested.