CS advocates robust governance for development of tourist destinations

Jammu, Nov 16: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, chaired a meeting to review the status and availability of wayside amenities along the National Highway and roads leading to prominent tourist destinations across the Union Territory.

Focussing on tourist convenience, the Chief Secretary reviewed the availability of toilet facilities along major tourist routes. Commissioner Secretary Tourism, Yasha Mudgal, apprised him of the construction status of mobile and bio-toilets during the current financial year.

The Chief Secretary stressed the importance of their proper maintenance and adherence to minimal operational standards.

Atal Dulloo called upon agencies such as the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL), and others to formulate a comprehensive plan for establishing and maintaining wayside amenities.

The Chief Secretary sought detailed updates from NH authorities regarding their current mandates and future plans for these facilities. He also emphasised the need for fast-track efforts to ensure the development of these essential facilities.

The meeting also addressed the functioning of various Development Authorities in the Union Territory. A presentation by Yasha Mudgal highlighted key challenges faced by the Development Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir, including jurisdictional overlaps, master plan enforcement, revenue utilisation and operational inefficiencies.

The Chief Secretary suggested interventions to resolve ambiguities regarding overlapping jurisdictions, with subsequent issuing of definitive orders or notifications. He also underscored the necessity of phased development of select tourist destinations.

To enhance administrative efficiency, Chief Secretary called for the establishment of robust, self-sustaining governing bodies for all major tourist destinations. These bodies, he stated, should ensure effective governance, organisation, and long-term sustainability. A framework for their governance was also proposed to be formulated.

The meeting was attended by Principal Secretary Agriculture Production and Forests, Shailendra Kumar; Principal Secretary Finance, Santosh D Vaidya; Commissioner Secretary GAD, Sanjeev Verma; Commissioner Secretary HUDD, Mandeep Kaur; Secretary PW(R&B), Bhupinder Kumar; Divisional Commissioners of Jammu and Kashmir, along with officers from NHAI and other concerned officers.