MUZAFFARABAD: The Azad Jammu and Kashmir government has initiated construction of a model horticulture theme park in its southern Bhimber district to boost tourism in the area, senior minister for physical planning, housing and irrigation Chaudhry Tariq Farooq told Dawn on Thursday.

The park, which is being developed in Jandi Chontra village of Samahni subdivision at a cost of Rs60 million, is expected to become a tourist attraction for locals and visitors from other parts of the country.

Bhimber is located along a route that was frequently used by Mughal emperors, making their way towards Kashmir valley, which is mostly why the district is rich in archaeological heritage.

Known for its panoramic views, Jandi Chontra is 17 kilometres away from Bhimber city and houses the shrine of sufi saint Baba Shadi Shaheed.

The park will be spread over more than 21 acres with rides for children, gardens, a mini zoo, mosque, cafeteria, rainwater harvesting ponds, walking tracks and other attractions to amuse people of all age groups.

Mr Farooq said, adding, work on the park will be completed in 24 months and it will be a treat for lovers of nature.

Emphasising upon the importance of tourism, he said it was one of the most noticeable and growing sectors of the world, playing a key role in boosting the economy of countries.

“Fortunately, our territory is also blessed with abundant natural beauty and ever since the inception of our government we have taken a number of steps to exploit our rich potential in the tourism sector,” he said, adding the government had paid attention towards construction of quality inter-district and inter-provincial roads for the convenience of travellers.

Mr Farooq said Covid-19 had affected most of the development activities along with sources livelihood of a vast majority, particularly those affiliated with the tourism sector.

“However, it’s a good omen that the pandemic is diminishing in AJK and tourism is being revived in the territory with strict adherence to relevant standard operating procedures (SOPs),” he added.

Mr Farooq, who has returned as MLA from Bhimber city for the fourth time, said that all three administrative units of his district – Bhimber, Barnala and Samahni - had too much to offer to tourists, such as breathtakingly beautiful valleys, waterfalls, rivulets, heritage sites, worship places for the Hindu and Sikh communities in addition to a national park.

Admitting that these sites had not been brought to the public’s attention in the past, he said the deficiency was being addressed in an organised manner.

He said Bhimber was easily accessible to the people of neighbouring Punjab who could even plan day trips with friends or family members.

“I have also conveyed a message to all local communities that they should not only show extraordinary hospitality to tourists but also religiously contribute towards preservation and cleanliness of heritage sites and tourist resorts.”

Published in Dawn, September 18th, 2020