Drass (J&K): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister
Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said comprehensive development of backward and far-flung areas, like Drass valley, and bringing them on
the international tourist map are the top priorities of his
government.
The Tourism Department will be directed to explore the
rich potential of Drass and other such areas to attract a
large number of tourists and adventure sports lovers, Omar
said here addressing a public meeting after a polo match.
Drass, the second coldest inhabited place in the world, is
famous for its freezing temperature but we will endeavour to
bring it on international tourist map for its scenic beauty
and wonderful mountains by organising various sports and other
activities, he said, adding there is a greater scope for
private sector to invest in the tourism and sports related
ventures in such areas.
"The government would provide every facility to the
investors in this regard," the Chief Minister said.
He told the gathering "your development and progress
figures on top in our policy planning and every effort would
be made to give considerable fillip to the economic uplift of
backward areas".
Rs 5500 crore and Rs 1200 crore sanctioned by the Centre
under Prime Ministers' reconstruction plan 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 said.
Bureau Report
First Published: Tuesday, August 18, 2009, 19:16