Kashmir Impulse Desk
Jammu, Aug 6
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Thursday that his government was committed to developing tourism across the region, rejecting suggestions that destinations with tourism potential were being overlooked.
Speaking after inaugurating a “Waste to Wonder” park in Jammu, CM Omar cited recent cabinet decisions to lease the former ITDC Hotel Ashok in Gulmarg and the Mantalai tourism complex in Udhampur district to private operators, saying the move would improve management of underutilised assets.
He said the Mantalai facility had the potential to emerge as a major wellness tourism destination despite its remote location, while the government’s broader strategy was aimed at strengthening tourism infrastructure throughout Jammu and Kashmir.
Highlighting the newly inaugurated park, the CM said the site had been transformed from a garbage dump into a recreational attraction featuring replicas of well-known monuments made from recycled scrap material.
He expressed hope that the park would become another draw for visitors to Jammu.
Referring to flood damage in Rajouri and Poonch districts, CM Omar said the government would seek a comprehensive central assistance package after completing an assessment of losses to public infrastructure and private property.
