SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday announced plans to develop Sonamarg into a major adventure tourism and winter sports destination, citing improved all-weather connectivity following the opening of the Sonamarg tunnel.
Speaking to reporters after inaugurating the 70th National School Games in Ganderbal, Abdullah said Sonamarg had traditionally remained inaccessible during winter, but the tunnel had enabled visitors to reach the tourist destination throughout the year.
“We want to promote rafting during summer and skiing, skating and other winter sports activities,” he said, adding that he would work with Kangan MLA Mian Mehar Ali to strengthen Sonamarg’s presence on the tourism map.
The Chief Minister also addressed traffic congestion along the Beehama–Kheer Bhawani road, where Chinar trees have been cited as a factor affecting the movement of vehicles.
Acknowledging the difficulties faced by commuters, Abdullah said a practical solution was needed without compromising environmental concerns. He suggested that some trees might have to be removed and eight to 10 Chinar trees planted at alternative locations away from roads.
“Development and environmental protection must go hand in hand,” he said.
Earlier during his visit, Abdullah said development works worth around Rs 60 crore had either been inaugurated or had their foundation stones laid in Ganderbal.
The projects included road works, a new school building and infrastructure improvements at the Fruit and Vegetable Mandi.
He said traders at the mandi had sought its expansion, a boundary wall and a grade separator to address infrastructure requirements. The demands had been discussed with officials of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), while other issues raised by traders had also been taken up for necessary action, he added.
