Proposed road till Uri’s Viji Top aims to unlock its tourism potential

Uri, Jan 10: With the administration proposing the construction of a road to Viji Top, residents of Babagail village in Uri area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district have urged for the exploration of this hidden gem from a tourism perspective.

The District Development Commissioner Baramulla held a meeting last month with officials of various departments, during which the proposal for a new road connecting Babagail to Viji top (a 5-kilometer stretch) was discussed. The meeting underscored the importance of constructing strategic roads and improving mobile connectivity in remote areas.

Locals have expressed their enthusiasm about the administration’s initiative and have emphasised the potential for development.

“This is a dream come true for us,” said Farhan Lone, a local resident of Babagail village. “For years, we have been telling visitors about Viji top, but the lack of proper access has kept many from coming. This road will open new opportunities for everyone here. We can’t wait to see more tourists and the economic boost it will bring,” he said.

“We are happy that the authorities have proposed the road construction to Viji top, as it is a must-visit destination that deserves to be explored,” Lone further noted.

Another local, Javaid Ahmad said that reaching Viji top by foot currently takes over three hours. “If the road is constructed, it will provide proper access to the spot. The three waterfalls, streams, dense forests, and meadows will be more accessible,” he said, adding, “The road should be approved at the earliest to attract both local and non-local visitors.”

Viji top, situated at over 4,000 feet above sea level in the higher reaches of Babagail village, offers panoramic views of surrounding mountains and meadows. It has long been considered a hidden gem of the Uri region. It is important to note that Babagail village is also a point of interest due to its proximity to the Limber Wildlife Sanctuary, which attracts visitors for markhor sightings and the Mithwan waterfall. “Proper facilities leading to Viji top could also draw more tourists to our village, creating employment opportunities for the locals,” said Ghulam Mohd Dar, a local.

He added, “Accommodation facilities, such as huts, also need to be built so that visitors can stay overnight.” Locals have appealed to tourism department officials and MLA Uri for a thorough exploration of Viji top and the development of necessary infrastructure there to enhance tourism in the region.