SRINAGAR, September 1, 2026 – In a major push to accelerate tourism development across the region, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo on Monday reviewed a multi-faceted roadmap presented by the Department of Tourism. The comprehensive strategy aims to upgrade visitor infrastructure across the Jammu Division, with a strong emphasis on expanding religious circuits, border tourism, and adventure destinations.
During the high-level meeting attended by senior officials, including the Additional Chief Secretaries of Tourism, Finance, and Public Works, Dulloo stressed the need to adopt an integrated approach. He emphasized that the benefits of tourism must reach a wider geographical area to create sustainable new opportunities for local communities.
1.Beyond a Transit Point:
The Chief Secretary emphasized that Jammu should evolve from being primarily a transit point for pilgrims into a vibrant, all-season tourist destination. He called for the optimum utilization of existing assets in Jammu city, such as the Tawi Riverfront and Jambu Zoo, and suggested setting a target to encourage at least 20 percent of pilgrims visiting the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine to stay longer for additional experiences around Katra and Jammu.
2.Religious and Border Tourism Boost:
The roadmap includes major infrastructure upgrades for prominent sites. A project costing ₹5 crore has been approved for the comprehensive upgradation of the Shivkhori Shrine under the Tourism Work Plan 2026-27. To strengthen border tourism, administrative approval has recently been granted for a ₹19.52 crore project at the Suchetgarh Border Outpost, which will increase seating capacity to 3,000 and introduce a VIP lounge, museum, and fine-dine restaurant.
3.Adventure and Leisure Development:
Adventure tourism is receiving significant attention, with the Baradari River Rafting Destination in Reasi being prioritized. The first phase of this white-water rafting project is targeted for completion by November 2026. Furthermore, under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme, a ₹96.07 crore Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been submitted for the Basohli-Ranjit Sagar Lake area, featuring components like a dual zipline, a waterfront recreation hub, and the architectural illumination of the Atal Setu Bridge.
To ensure these initiatives succeed, the Chief Secretary advised the Tourism Department to effectively package the region’s distinct local art, culture, music, and cuisine. He also called for expanding the development roadmap to cover emerging, high-potential destinations like Bhaderwah, Sanasar, and Seven Lakes.
The concerted effort seeks to diversify Jammu’s tourism offerings, positioning it as a premier destination while generating greater economic opportunities through increased visitor footfall and stronger regional circuits.
Published by True Roots Media Network