BHADERWAH: A significant stakeholders’ interaction was convened in Bhaderwah to discuss the holistic development of the region’s tourism sector, with an emphasis on adventure, cultural and eco-friendly tourism. The interaction was presided over by DDC Chairman, Dhanetar Singh and was attended by Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh, Senior Superintendent of Police, Sandeep Mehta, and Joint Director Tourism, Jammu, Sunaina Sharma Mehta along with key stakeholders from the tourism industry.
In her opening address, Joint Director Tourism emphasised that this on-site interaction was organized in line with the directives of Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar represents a strategic step forward in realizing the Government’s vision of transforming Bhaderwah into a vibrant hub of tourism and sustainable development, alongside other iconic destinations in Doda and Jammu Division with the active support of stakeholders.
She further emphasized the importance of engaging women and youth to promote adventure tourism, local cuisines, Art &Craft, rural tourism, and homestays, empowering local communities and enhancing the visitor experience. She also announced that this year’s Vibrant Bhaderwah Festival will be celebrated with great enthusiasm, highlighting the region’s cultural and adventure tourism potential on both national and international platforms.
DDC Chairman underscored the significance of promoting Bhaderwah’s trekking routes and the Pilgrimage Circuit as key attractions to enhance adventure tourism and draw more visitors to the region, thereby contributing to its sustainable growth and development as a premier tourist destination.
DC underscored the vast potential of Bal Padri as a premier destination for ATV rides and paragliding, complemented by the picturesque charm of Gul Danda for snow pontooning and trekking. He highlighted Jai Valley’s emergence as a sought-after hub for paragliding and ziplining, emphasizing the critical role of stakeholder collaboration in unlocking the region’s tourism potential. He further lauded the efforts of specialized cooperatives and self-help groups in addressing sanitation and implementing robust waste management systems at tourist destinations, ensuring sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices.
SSP emphasized the critical importance of maintaining comprehensive tourist records, including complete address details, and ensuring timely sharing of this information with the police. He highlighted that this proactive approach not only enhances security but also facilitates the efficient management of tourist inflows, contributing to a safer and more organized tourism experience.
This meeting reaffirmed the collective commitment of all stakeholders to position Bhaderwah as a dynamic hub for adventure tourism, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism practices, with a shared vision of establishing it as one of J&K’s premier tourism destinations. Stakeholders present also gave their valuable suggestions emphasizing the collective efforts required to position Bhaderwah as a leading destination for adventure tourism.
