STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Yudhvir Sethi, MLA Jammu East, strongly raised the issue of tourism development in the Jammu region while speaking in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, alleging that the present NC-led government has ignored key tourism projects and promotional activities vital for the Jammu region’s growth.
During his address, Sethi described tourism as “the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy,” stating that lakhs of visitors arrive through Jammu Railway Station every year, yet basic facilities such as a Tourism Department information counter remain absent. He urged the government to immediately establish a dedicated tourist information centre at the railway station to guide visitors about prominent destinations in the Jammu region.
Highlighting the condition of local tourist attractions, the MLA claimed that the light and sound system at Bagh-e-Bahu Park has remained closed since the present government assumed office. He also pointed out that the ropeway project connecting Peer Kho to Mahamaya Temple is currently non-functional, which, according to him, has adversely affected tourist footfall and local business opportunities.
Sethi further criticised the lack of promotion of the Aquarium-cum-Fish Awareness Centre at Bagh-e-Bahu Fort, stating that the site has significant potential to attract families and educational tours if properly publicised.
He called upon the Tourism Department to organise large-scale cultural events during festivals such as Lohri and Navratras to showcase Jammu’s heritage, traditions, and spiritual tourism.
“The government must revive cultural activities at Kala Kendra and restore old traditions associated with JKTDC in Jammu,” Sethi said, adding that regular festivals and artistic programmes can play a major role in boosting tourism and generating employment opportunities.
Referring to the post-2014 period, the MLA stated that a decline in terrorism had led to a positive rise in tourism, with several developmental initiatives launched by Narendra Modi-led Central Government to strengthen infrastructure in Jammu. However, he alleged that many ongoing projects remain incomplete and urged the government to expedite all pending tourism-related works to attract more visitors to the region.
Sethi also proposed inviting leading film personalities to locations near the International Border to promote Jammu as a unique tourism destination across the country. He emphasised the need to develop eco-tourism at Gharana Wetland and called for better promotion of wildlife, adventure, and nature-based tourism circuits.
Expressing concern over the absence of proper publicity, he criticised the authorities for not installing adequate hoardings and signages in Jammu to guide tourists about key destinations.
“Without proper awareness and promotion, the tourism potential of Jammu cannot be fully realised,” he remarked.
Concluding his speech, Yudhvir Sethi urged the government to adopt a comprehensive and inclusive tourism strategy that recognises Jammu’s cultural identity and natural assets.
He stressed that timely completion of projects, improved promotion, and consistent cultural programming are essential to position Jammu as a major tourist hub and to ensure balanced regional development across the Union Territory.