The Government of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is seeking financial aid of Rs 40 crore from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) to improve the condition of the Patnitop-Sanasar road. The current state of the road is discouraging tourists from visiting Sanasar, a picturesque resort renowned for its expansive cup-shaped meadow surrounded by magnificent coniferous trees. Sanasar offers a range of thrilling activities such as paragliding, parasailing, and hot-air ballooning, and its moderate elevation allows for both summer and winter recreational pursuits. However, the deteriorated condition of the Patnitop-Sanasar road hinders the flow of visitors to Sanasar. The first 10 kilometers of the road is managed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), meeting the specific requirements of the Army and primarily serving heavy vehicles. Unfortunately, this section is unsuitable for small vehicles. The remaining portion of the road falls under the responsibility of the Roads and Buildings Department, which carries out only patchwork repairs. This part of the road suffers significant damage even with a single heavy rainfall, causing immense inconvenience for tourists.
Despite the projected grant of Rs 40 crore, it is crucial to understand that only the 9-kilometer stretch maintained by the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department can be enhanced based on the submitted Detailed Project Report (DPR). Unfortunately, the first 10 kilometers under the responsibility of the BRO will remain unchanged. This partial improvement approach might not significantly contribute to the promotion of Sanasar as a tourist destination. Additionally, due to the Supreme Court order, no further construction or conversion will be permitted at Patnitop until the ecological balance has been restored. This restriction poses a challenge to the development of Patnitop as a premier tourist destination in the Jammu region, despite its potential for high footfall throughout the year. The current limitations imposed by the Supreme Court order hinder the Tourism Department and other stakeholders from making significant developments in the area. This situation presents a challenge for the Tourism Department, as Patnitop has significant potential for high footfall throughout the year, given the natural beauty and opportunities for various adventurous activities. However, the restriction hampers the development of substantial tourism infrastructure in the region.
Despite the absence of such restrictions in Sanasar, the Tourism Department has been unsuccessful in creating substantial developments to cater to tourists. The lack of well-established amenities like clubs or resorts in the Sanasar area significantly restricts the options for tourists to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the mesmerising natural beauty of the region. This situation not only restricts the experience of tourists but also affects the economic benefits that could be generated for the local community. The concerned authorities and stakeholders must recognise the potential of Sanasar as a tourist destination and work towards the development of necessary infrastructure and amenities. This may include the establishment of resorts, hotels, guesthouses, or other accommodations that cater to the needs and preferences of tourists who wish to stay and explore the area in greater depth. Developing these facilities would not only enhance the experience for tourists but also create employment opportunities for the local community and contribute to the local economy.
Efforts should be made to ensure that any development plans or infrastructure projects align with sustainable practices and adhere to environmental regulations. Engaging with environmental experts and local communities can help identify the best approaches for developing tourism infrastructure while minimising the impact on the natural surroundings. Additionally, collaboration between the Government, tourism authorities, local communities, and private investors can play a significant role in attracting investments and developing tourism-related facilities. By creating a conducive environment for investment and promoting responsible tourism practices, it is possible to strike a balance between development and conservation, thereby unlocking the full potential of Sanasar as a thriving tourist destination.
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