NEELUM (Kashmir English): The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government has proposed several new projects to expand eco- and community-based tourism in Neelum Valley as part of the Prime Minister AJK’s 100-day reform programme.
According to the official press release, Director General Tourism AJK Raja Shahid Hussain visited several areas of Neelum Valley, including Keran near the Line of Control, the historic village of Tehjian, and Kel Seri Bela.
On this occasion, Assistant Director Tourism Neelum Malik Murtaza, Tourism Officer Chaudhry Lal, along with the staff of the Tourism Department, welcomed DG Tourism and gave him a detailed briefing on the proposed projects. He also held meetings with local stakeholders and elders of the area.
“In the light of the instructions of Minister for Tourism Abdul Rehman Arain and Secretary Tourism Muhammad Ansar Yaqoob, DG Tourism visited Tehjian and reviewed the possibilities of promoting community-based tourism there.
On this occasion, local elders presented suggestions regarding the historical, cultural and natural importance of Tehjian, its tourism potential and the involvement of the local population in tourism activities.
DG Tourism AJK Raja Shahid said the plan is aimed at involving local residents in tourism activities so they can directly benefit from new jobs, businesses and other economic opportunities.
He further said Neelum Valley has strong tourism potential because of its natural beauty, unique culture and historical heritage. Raja Shahid also visited Kel Seri Bela and said the area is suitable for the development of an eco-tourism park.
The official said that local concerns related to the proposed project will be addressed through consultation, adding that the protection of the natural environment and ecological balance will remain a key part of any eco-tourism development.
“The government is also identifying more natural, cultural and historical sites across Neelum Valley that can be developed for sustainable tourism,” the press release added.
It added that promoting eco-tourism and community-based tourism will not only attract more visitors to the valley but also create new employment, business and income opportunities for local communities.
