Efforts to Boost Jammu’s Economy Through Tourism, Heritage & Pilgrimage Promotion
JAMMU, MAR 04: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reaffirmed his government’s commitment to promoting Jammu’s religious tourism circuit to boost the region’s economy. Addressing a query raised by MLA Yudhvir Sethi during the Question Hour in the Legislative Assembly, Abdullah, who also holds charge of the Tourism Department, emphasized ongoing efforts to publicize and develop Jammu’s tourism assets.
“The department is actively working on developing the Jammu pilgrimage circuit. I have repeatedly emphasized this to over one crore Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrims. If even ten to fifteen percent of them are encouraged to visit other tourist destinations in Jammu, it will significantly benefit the region. However, we have not been able to achieve this so far,” he said.
The Chief Minister acknowledged the lack of comprehensive information about Jammu’s pilgrimage sites as a major challenge. He announced that structured itineraries for three-day, four-day, and seven-day pilgrimage tours would be developed and promoted extensively. “We will ensure widespread distribution of promotional literature at trade and tourism fairs to attract visitors,” he added.
Addressing Concerns Over Connectivity and Tourism Impact
Responding to concerns about the impact of direct train connectivity to Kashmir and the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway bypassing Jammu, the Chief Minister admitted that the local tourism industry was apprehensive. “There is concern that with the railway now extending not just to Katra but also to Srinagar and Baramulla, and with the expressway allowing travelers to bypass Jammu City, tourism in Jammu may be affected,” he said.
He stressed that simply developing tourism sites was not enough and that branding and visibility were crucial. “Jammu’s heritage landmarks, the upcoming Jammu lake, and the Jammu zoo are significant attractions, but they need better promotion. We must give these destinations a distinct identity,” he asserted.
Infrastructure Development and Smart City Initiatives
Earlier, responding to a starred question, the Chief Minister highlighted various infrastructure projects under the State Capex Budget and the Swadesh Darshan Scheme aimed at attracting more tourists to Jammu City.
A musical water fountain with a sound and light show has been installed at Bagh-e-Bahu to enhance visitor experiences. Tourist facilities have also been developed at Bhagwati Nagar and Sidhra Golf Course, while an amusement park near Sidhra Golf Course has been constructed to provide more recreational options. The much-anticipated ropeway project from Mohmaya to Bagh-e-Bahu has also been implemented to improve connectivity and offer a scenic travel option for tourists.
The Jammu Smart City Limited (JSCL) is spearheading several initiatives to modernize Jammu’s infrastructure and enhance its appeal. As part of its heritage conservation and beautification efforts, JSCL has undertaken restoration work at Bahu Fort, Mubarak Mandi, Raghunath Bazaar, and various temples and ghats under the Smart City initiative.
To improve urban mobility, major road upgrades and the development of pedestrian-friendly pathways are underway. The city has also introduced electric buses under the eBus project, promoting eco-friendly public transport. A key initiative under JSCL is the redevelopment of the Tawi Riverfront, transforming it into a vibrant recreational hub with promenades, cycling tracks, and leisure spaces.
Further, heritage sites such as Bahu Fort, the Army Headquarters at Mubarak Mandi, Maha Maya Temple, and Tawi bridges have been enhanced with façade lighting, adding to their visual appeal. The government has also introduced digital and immersive light and sound shows at Bahu Fort heritage sites to make historical and cultural experiences more engaging.
The Chief Minister emphasized that JSCL’s vision aligns with making Jammu a modern, tourist-friendly, and sustainable city while preserving its rich cultural and historical essence.
