MUZAFFRABAD: Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Raja Mohammad Farooq Haider Khan has said that tourism is the backbone of our economy and we must maintain good infrastructure and echo friendly environment to attract more tourists.
He expressed these views while addressing the inauguration ceremony of tourism complex, built by AJK government. Minister for Information, Tourism and IT Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Mr. Mushtaq Ahmed Minhas and Secretary Information, Tourism and IT AJK, Ms. Midhat Shahzad were also present on the occasion.
Director General AJK Tourism, Sardar Javed Ayub gave detailed briefing to the Prime Minister about different ongoing projects for the promotion of tourism in AJK.
While addressing the gathering the PM said that the government is focusing on economic development with emphasis on promoting and developing the tourism industry in AJK.
He said that Azad Kashmir is beautiful area that has huge potential for tourism as it possesses varied landscape and climate.
He stated that AJK has many historical and religious sites like Sufi shrines, forts and archeological sites. He said forts dating back to the Mughal, Sikh, and Dogra rule include Baghsar Fort, Ramkot Fort, Muzaffarabad Fort and Mangla Fort. These sites he said are not only tourist attractions but also a source of knowledge for researchers studying ancient civilization.
The government’s priority is construction of new roads, Motels and Rest houses. The improvement and expansion of basic infrastructure is essential for the promotion of tourism industry in AJK, he added.
He stated that a 200-kilometer tourism corridor will also be established which will pass through different tourist destinations of AJK. This corridor will promote tourism and will have quality facilities to cater to the growing number of tourists.
Earlier The DG AJK Tourism told that to facilitate each and every tourist the Kashmir government will issue a smart card at every entry point.
