Ishfaq Gulzar CNI

Jammu: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday announced that the Tourism Department will evaluate the necessity of establishing a Tourism Development Authority (TDA) for Gurez to boost its tourism potential.

Addressing the Legislative Assembly, Omar highlighted Jammu and Kashmir’s growing recognition as a top tourist destination. He noted that in 2022, Gurez Valley was awarded the Best Destination Award, and in September 2023, Dawar village in Gurez won the Best Tourism Village Award (Gold Category) from the Union Ministry of Tourism, emphasizing its cultural richness and tourism appeal.

To further develop Gurez as a premier offbeat destination, the J&K Tourism Department has launched several initiatives. In 2024, commercial rafting was introduced in Gurez for the first time, and under the Capex Budget 2024-25, infrastructure upgrades are planned to enhance its tourism profile.

Omar reaffirmed the government’s commitment to exploring Gurez’s full tourism potential, stating that the Tourism Department will examine the need for a dedicated Tourism Development Authority for the region.