Drass (Ladakh),August 18 (Vijay Kumar) – J&K Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah on Tuesday at Drass in Kargil district in Ladakh region said that Drass like areas would be opened up for international tourism by way of organizing activities like polo and other sports. “Drass is commonly known for cold temperature but we will endeavour to bring it on international tourist map for its scenic beauty and wonderful mountains”. He said that the tourism department will be directed to explore the rich potential of Drass and other such areas for tourism development and adventure sports.
He was addressing a public gathering at Drass after giving away prizes to the participants of polo match. The Chief Minister said that in the atmosphere of new scenario when peace and tranquility is prevailing, private sector should come forward and invest funds liberally in boosting the tourist related activities. He added that government will definitely encourage Public Private Partnership (PPP) in tourism sector so that maximum facility oriented infrastructure is created for visiting tourists and we are able to compete with all International tourist destinations in this field.
Mr. Omar said that there is a greater scope for private sector to invest in the tourism and sports related ventures in Drass and other such areas of the State. “The government would provide every facility to the investors in this regard. The joint ventures in this field can also be worked out”, he added.
He said that the highest ever annual plan of Rs. 5500 crore and Rs. 1200 crore under Prime Ministers’ Reconstruction Plan (PMRP) sanctioned by the Centre would be distributed in the State to ensure equitable development of all areas with additional focus on far-flung and cut-off areas.
The Chief Minister appreciated the role of army for rendering stupendous service for the welfare and betterment of people in border areas. He said army has extended its valuable support to the civil administration during the period of natural calamities and in normal situation.
Referring to the demand for Tourism Development Authority for Drass, the Chief Minister said that he will ask the tourism department to work out the feasibility and take a view about the demand positively.
The polo match was played between the teams of Lalit Hospitality Group and Drass Polo Team at Vishwanathan Stadium, Drass. The match which was witnessed by a large gathering of people, was won by the Lalit Hospitality Group by 3 goals to 2. The group also announced they will play their role in enriching tourist infrastructure in Drass.
Among others the Minister for CAPD and Transport, Qamar Ali Akhoon, Chief Executive Councilor, LAHDC, Kargil, Kachoo Ahmad Ali Khan, legislators Feroz Ahmad and Aga Syed Ahmad, Executive Councilors, Councilors and Deputy Commissioner, Kargil were present on the occasion.
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