SRINAGAR: The Ladakh administration is in discussions with the Army to formulate strategies for promoting tourism in border areas, responding to long-standing demands from locals for the holistic and sustainable development of tourism, a report in The Tribune read.
Approximately 25 years after the Kargil war, various regions, such as Mushkoh Valley, which witnessed historical battles, are slated for development into tourist destinations, with the Ladakh administration seeking assistance from the Army.
Areas like Kaksar, Chulichan, and Gargardo in Kargil, which also experienced significant conflicts, are targeted for rejuvenation to enhance their tourism potential.
Kacho Mehboob Ali Khan, the Secretary of the Tourism and Culture Department in Ladakh, recently convened with Army officials to address issues related to tourism and infrastructure development in proximity to the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
The Tourism department has engaged in dialogues with the 8 Mountain Division in Kargil and the 14 Corps in Ladakh, seeking the Army’s support in developing infrastructure in border areas. Discussions highlighted the strategic importance of Mushkoh Valley, Kaksar, Chulichan, and Gargardo, exploring ways to leverage them for sustainable tourism.
A noteworthy aspect of the deliberations is the exploration of adventure tourism opportunities, particularly in paragliding and gondola activities. The focus is on recognising the significance of these activities in enhancing the overall tourist experience and contributing to the economic growth of the region.
Since Ladakh became a Union Territory separate from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019, the administration has been working towards positioning the cold desert as a year-round tourist destination to bolster its economy.
Secretary Khan, as per a report in The Tribune stressed the importance of promoting Ladakh as a premier tourist destination while addressing the unique challenges faced in border areas. “Strategies are being developed to enhance infrastructure, ensuring a seamless experience for travellers while preserving the region’s cultural and ecological integrity,” he said.
Emphasising the responsible promotion of adventure tourism, Khan highlighted the need to consider the region’s distinctive topography and environmental sensitivity.
The Army, having recently eased access to some border areas along the LoC and LAC, is now being sought for further support to increase tourist access to additional regions. The Ladakh administration aims to collaborate with the Army to unlock the tourism potential of various areas, bringing economic benefits to the region.
