Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, June 21: Government is exploring new trekking avenues in the State to attract more foreign and domestic tourist and increase their footfall in the State.
Minister of State for Tourism Priya Sethi, while replying to a question by Abdul Rahim Rather in the Legislative Assembly, said that efforts are being made to attract foreign and domestic tourists to undertake trekking at different spots in the State.
The Minister said Sinthan Top, Lehanwan, Margam, Girsar, Drobamarg, Poshbagh, Mawarnag, Gangsar, Hokhsar, Hajibal, Choraranag and Pannasd are already on the trekking map of Kashmir valley and the Department is promoting these spots to attract more tourists.
She said that Kokernag has a huge potential for the development of adventure sports and trekking is being promoted there by organizing different trekking programs in collaboration with prominent trekking clubs.
The Minister informed the House that Kokernag Development Authority is annually being funded under State plan to the extent of Rs 2.25 crore for development of infrastructure.
She said that the Authority has already constructed TRC, Trekkers Hut, Pony Sheds and Shelter Sheds at Margan Top and has also constructed huts and parks at Kokernag, Acchabal and Daksum.
She further stated that seven projects have been sanctioned by Central Government at a total cost of Rs 21.93 crore, out of which four projects have been completed and remaining are at various stages of execution for strengthening the infrastructure at Kokernag and its jurisdiction.
Follow our WhatsApp channel