Secretary, Planning Development and Monitoring Department, Dr Raghav Langer, today conducted an extensive visit of Sukrala Mata Shrine to take stock of development works including infrastructural and other amenities coming up for pilgrims.
Deputy Commissioner, Kathua, Rahul Pandey, Director Tourism V. N Rai, Superintendent Engineer PWD, Kuldeep Singh Nathyal, Superintendent Engineer PMGSY, Mohit Mahajan, CEO Billawar-Dugaan Development Authority Rajesh Lakhan, ADC Billawar, Vinay Khosla and other concerned officers were present on the occasion.
During the visit, Dr Langar and the accompanying officers inspected various facilities at Sukrala Mata Shrine including accommodation, transportation and parking service for tourists thronging the shrine. The team also visited other nearby tourism assets in the area.
Dr langar said that efforts are being made to promote religious tourism in the area and create more employment opportunities for the local people.He expressed satisfaction over the facilities being made available for the devotees at Sukrala Mata Shrine. He said that the government would take all necessary measures to further enhance tourism facilities in the region.
"With government's support and cooperation from the local community, it is hoped that the area will see a significant rise in tourism influx, which will benefit the local people and the region", Secretary maintained.
Later, Secretary alongwith team of officers held meeting with stakeholders including Baaridars (local priests) to discuss issues concerning the Shrine besides seeking suggestions for fast paced development of the Shrine.
Secretary also reviewed progress on works being executed on Billawar-Sukrala road, Tourism Road being maintained by PWD and Billawar-Machhedi road link under PMGSY which will improve connectivity in the region.
He also discussed in length the ongoing development projects taken up by Tourism department including Bus Stand and Parking slot at Sukrala. He called for ensuring completion of all ongoing works within fixed timelines.
Director Tourism and CEO Billawar Duggan Development Authority Rajesh Lakhan also highlighted the tourism potential of the area. They assured that tourism department would extend all necessary support to promote tourism in the region.