Saturday, June 6, 2009

Jora promises top facilities at Patnitop, Sanasar

PDA executing works worth Rs 7.44 cr 
Reiterating his commitment to create facilities of international standards at Patnitop and Sanasar, Minister for Tourism and Culture Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora has asked the concerned authorities to take follow up measures so that tourist flow to these scenic spots is increased. The Minister said this during his visit to Patnitop and Sanasar today. 
Mr. Jora inspected various ongoing developmental works being carried out by Patnitop Development Authority (PDA) at these spots. He was was briefed that works to the tune of Rs 7.44 crore have been taken up under PDA and so far Rs 5.55 crore have been expended.
The Minister was informed that Rs 3.86 crore have been utilized on development of parks, public conveniences, segregating of forest area, construction of footpaths and redevelopment of 9-hole golf course at Sanasar. He instructed the authorities to undertake necessary repairs of tourist huts, walkways and shelter-sheds. He also ordered construction of walkway around Sanasar lake and asked for formulating a project report for construction of a cafeteria and viewpoints at Natha Top.
The Minister said more needs to be done to maintain cleanliness at Patnitop and Sansar and issued instructions for the same. 
During his meeting with tourism-related associations at Patnitop, he assured them that their demands and suggestions would be considered for promoting tourism in the area.
Mr. Jora said that a project report worth Rs. 27 crore was submitted to the Central government for exploring tourist potential of other areas of the Authority. He said project report of Rs. 5 crore has been approved by the Centre for construction of budgeted accommodation and wayside amenities and illumination of Mall Road at Kud. He directed the concerned authorities to complete all formalities for early execution of these projects.
Director Tourism, Jammu and General Manager, JKTDC, besides other senior officers and engineers accompanied the Minister.