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Encourage pilgrims to visit hotspots in Jammu: Omar Abdullah on increasing tourist footfall

Posted on by Lucas
Encourage pilgrims to visit hotspots in Jammu: Omar Abdullah on increasing tourist footfall

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently said that if pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine were encouraged to explore the tourist hotspots in Jammu and Kashmir, this would bring another 1.5 million tourists to the region would bring.

He stressed that the early completion of a much-awaited project to create a lake in Jammu is an important step in positioning the region as a major tourism destination. “If we can encourage even 15% of pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi to explore other tourist sites in Jammu, we could see an influx of 15 lakh tourists – a figure comparable to Kashmir’s tourism years,” he said while inaugurating an open-air festival amphitheater in Bagh-e-Bahu on December 27, PTI quoted him as saying. The Prime Minister explained his vision of developing Jammu into a unique tourist hotspot.

Abdullah highlighted the potential of Jammu, particularly focusing on the region’s renowned pilgrimage sites, with the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine attracting more than 10 million visitors annually.

Talking about the development of Bagh-e-Bahu and recalling its transformation from a simple place to a vibrant tourism hub with water fountains, an aquarium and a sound and light show, he said, “I have seen Bagh-e-Bahu .” Bahu grew from a humble place to a center with water fountains, an aquarium and a sound and light show. Today, it is an important part of this amphitheater that adds a new dimension to the cultural and tourism landscape of Jammu,” he noted.

Abdullah encouraged all departments to make full use of the amphitheater and suggested using it for events to bring the community together. “This facility should host school events where students can hone their skills and showcase their talent. It is important that this amphitheater does not remain unused,” he emphasized.

The Prime Minister called for regular events at the venue and hoped for a publicly promoted calendar of activities by schools and private organizations, particularly those that lack adequate facilities.

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He reiterated the need to establish Jammu as a distinct tourism identity, citing ongoing initiatives such as the soon-to-be-completed lake project.

“Jammu will soon have its own lake – a milestone that will significantly boost tourism. Projects like this are crucial to firmly establish Jammu on the tourism map,” Abdullah said.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the seasonal nature of the amphitheater’s use and expressed optimism about its potential to host four to five months of events annually. From his residence across the river, Abdullah said he enjoyed a direct view of the action in the amphitheater.

“From my balcony, I can hear the soothing sounds of the river and occasionally enjoy the sound and light show,” he shared. Looking ahead, the Chief Minister expressed his anticipation of the lively activities at the amphitheater and urged departments to ensure continued effective promotion of the venue.

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