Tariq khan cniNoorpur, CNI NEWS Shokat Hussain Kazmi (Retd. KAS) and Waqar Ahmed Choudhary, prominent social and religious activists, have demanded comprehensive infrastructure development of the Sathra–Thanpir–Pindi-Gali–Noorpur–Sankh-Doda tourism belt in Poonch district.They said the region possesses immense tourism potential owing to its scenic mountains, lush meadows, forests, pasturelands and panoramic landscapes. However, the lack of basic facilities, including safe drinking water,

sanitation, public toilets, road connectivity, resting places and tourist signage, is hindering the growth of tourism in the area.The duo said visitor numbers have increased in recent years, indicating growing interest in these unexplored destinations. With proper infrastructure, promotion and planned development, the belt could emerge as a significant hub for nature, eco, adventure and border tourism in the Pir Panjal region.Kazmi and Choudhary said tourism development could provide substantial employment and livelihood opportunities for local youth, particularly through homestays, local transport, handicrafts, traditional food outlets, tourist guides, camping and other small businesses.

They urged the Government of Jammu & Kashmir and the Lieutenant Governor’s Administration to prepare a dedicated development plan for the proposed circuit and sought the active support of local MLA Ajaz Jan in taking up the matter with the concerned authorities.They also appealed to the authorities to consider declaring the Sathra–Thanpir–Pindi-Gali–Noorpur–Sankh-Doda belt as a “Border Tourism Circuit”, saying focused government attention could unlock its tourism potential and contribute significantly to the economic development of the Pir Panjal region. CNI NEWS