KUPWARA, SEPTEMBER 27 (KNS) : The District Administration, Kupwara in collaboration with Lolab Bangus Drangyari Development Authority (LBDDA), Tourism Department and Army today organized number of activities to mark the celebration of World Tourism Day, at Tourist Reception Centre (TRC), here.

 

The Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Doifode Sagar Dattatray was the Chief Guest at the Occasion.

 

Chief Executive Officer, LBDDA, Ghulam Nabi Bhat; CO 41 RR, Colonel M.S Navalgati; DDC Members, PRIs, Chairman H.N Wanchoo Trust, Dr. Amit Wancho; District Officers, students and other concerned were present at the occasion.

 

At the beginning of the event, the DC handed over one Ambulance to PHC Kralpora which was donated by H N Wanchoo Trust, SAKAL Relief Trust Fund and NGO SARHAD. The students of SARHAD School Dardpora Kupwara presented a prayer and motivational song. The DC interacted with these students and took pictures with them.

 

The DC inspected the stalls organized by various departments and received feedback regarding their activities. He also inspected the Photographs exhibited on the walls of TRC building which were showcasing the tourism potential of the district. These pictures were captured by the local Photography Club.

 

Later, the DC addressed the gathering at the Conference Hall of TRC and highlighted the importance of celebrating World Tourism Day. He said that nature has bestowed Kupwara with plenty of scenic beauty and lush green forests that offers a huge tourism potential for local and international tourists.

 

He said Bangus has the potential to become the world famous tourist destination adding that the Master Plan for development of Bangus valley would become available within 3 months for which orders have been already issued to Chief Executive Officer LBDDA.

 

The DC also said that the Government is making concerted efforts to develop the tourism sector by way of traditional means and innovative ways which include development of homestays in the offbeat and far flung areas. He said that the administration is committed to develop border tourism adding that efforts are apace in developing facilities in Karnah, Keran and Machill.

 

He said that development of homestays is being encouraged in the district and the administration has a target to develop 300 homestays out of which 50 have already been approved which will boost the border tourism in the district.

 

On the occasion, a documentary film was screened by the Tourism Department, showcasing the tourism potential of the district and the measures being taken by the Government to tap this potential.

 

Later, the DC distributed Certificates of Appreciation among various persons who have contributed towards the development of the tourism sector in the district.(KNS)