Jammu, March 04, 2025 – Chief Minister Omar Abdullah reiterated his government’s commitment to transforming Jammu into a premier religious tourism hub to bolster the region’s economy. Speaking during the Question Hour of the Budget Session 2025 in the Legislative Assembly, Abdullah responded to a supplementary query from MLA Yudhvir Sethi, detailing efforts to promote tourism, heritage, and pilgrimage in Jammu.
As the head of the Tourism Department, the Chief Minister emphasized the untapped potential of Jammu’s pilgrimage circuit. “Over one crore pilgrims visit Mata Vaishno Devi annually. If even 10-15% explore other destinations in Jammu, it could transform the region’s economy. However, we’ve yet to achieve this due to insufficient publicity,” he said. He highlighted plans to develop structured three-day, four-day, and seven-day pilgrimage itineraries and distribute promotional materials at tourism fairs to attract visitors.
Addressing concerns about Jammu being bypassed due to direct train connectivity to Kashmir and the Delhi-Amritsan-Katra Expressway, Abdullah acknowledged the challenges faced by the local tourism industry. “With railways extending to Srinagar and Baramulla and the expressway diverting traffic, we must enhance Jammu’s visibility. Attractions like heritage landmarks, the upcoming Jammu lake, and Jammu zoo are significant, but they need better branding,” he noted.
The Chief Minister also outlined infrastructure projects under the State Capex Budget and Swadesh Darshan Scheme. Key developments include a musical water fountain with a sound and light show at Bagh-e-Bahu, tourist facilities at Bhagwati Nagar and Sidhra Golf Course, an amusement park near Sidhra, and the Mohmaya-to-Bagh-e-Bahu ropeway.
Under the Jammu Smart City Limited initiative, efforts are underway to modernize infrastructure and preserve heritage. Notable projects include the restoration of Bahu Fort, Mubarak Mandi, and Raghunath Bazaar, façade lighting at heritage sites, and immersive light and sound shows at Bahu Fort. The Tawi Riverfront redevelopment, featuring promenades and cycling tracks, aims to create a vibrant recreational hub. Additionally, electric buses have been introduced to promote sustainable transport, alongside major road upgrades and pedestrian pathways.
Abdullah underscored that these initiatives align with the vision of making Jammu a modern, tourist-friendly city while preserving its cultural legacy. “We are committed to giving Jammu’s destinations a distinct identity and ensuring they are promoted effectively,” he concluded.