Tourist cafeteria, gazebo in foothills of Bangus valley at Galganzar Zachaldara in shambles

Kupwara, Jul 3: Nestled in the foothills of Bangus valley, a tourist cafeteria and a gazebo at Galganzar Zachaldara have been left unattended by the concerned authorities resulting in damage to the buildings with each passing day.

The residents of the area told Greater Kashmir that the said tourist cafeteria was constructed a decade ago but for reasons not known, it has not been handed over to the Tourist Department yet. "We were happy after the construction of this cafeteria was taken in hand, although it was completed in all aspects but don't know why it has been left to vanish," Farooq Bhat, a local, said.

"A huge amount has been utilised for its construction so how can authorities leave it like this. Not only glasses but windows of this cafeteria have been damaged by the miscreants. Had it not been left unattended, it would have been in better shape," he added.

The residents said that since the cafeteria was located along Handwara-Rajwar Bangus road, so tourists visiting Bangus could easily stay here and explore this beautiful place located in the foothills of Bangus valley.

"Even the locals can set up their stalls here which could pave the way for earning their livelihood," said a local youth. District Development Council Member (DDC) Rajwar, Sulaiman Mir told Greater Kashmir that not only this cafeteria but tourist huts at Wader Balla and Wader Payeen have been also left unattended giving tough times to the tourists visiting Bangus valley. I am hopeful that during this year all these assets would be renovated so that the tourists can use them," he added.

Regarding watch and ward staff, he said that being temporary employees, they never get salary on time. He said that they were without salary for the last several months thus putting them into a lot of hardships. He demanded that their salary should be released at the earliest so that their sufferings may be lessened.