Working President of JKPCC, Raman Bhalla, along with former ministers Yogesh Sawhney and Yash Pal Kundal, visited the Bagh-e-Bhau tourist circuit on September 25. They raised concerns over the deteriorating condition of this vital pilgrim-tourist circuit in Jammu.
Bhalla criticized the BJP-led government’s neglect of the roads connecting significant landmarks, including Balidaan Stambh, Har ki Poudi, and the Herbal Garden. He attributed the poor state of the infrastructure to over a decade of disinterest from the current administration.
During their visit, the Congress leaders expressed deep dismay at the lack of maintenance that led to the circuit’s condition, which worsened due to recent rains and floods. Bhalla stated, “The BJP government failed to uphold their responsibilities, leaving both pilgrims and local residents at a disadvantage.”
The prominent leader pointed out that these roads, which were originally constructed to boost pilgrimage tourism, have now turned into hazardous pathways due to years of negligence. He continued, “It is disheartening to witness the deterioration of a project that saw considerable investment and effort from the Congress party before 2014.”
Bhalla criticized the BJP for its promises of beautification and development in Jammu, labeling them as empty slogans. “The BJP’s failure to maintain this vital tourist route reflects their broader failure to serve the community,” he added, urging immediate restoration efforts by local authorities.
The visit included several other Congress leaders, such as Diwan Chand, Latish Sharma, and Arun Dadwal, who echoed Bhalla’s sentiments. They stressed that the neglect of the Bagh-e-Bhau region is emblematic of the BJP’s broader governance failures.
Experts in urban infrastructure underscore that regular maintenance and timely upgrades are critical for the sustainability of tourist circuits. The current scenario showcases a sharp decline in tourist engagement, as visitors often eschew poorly maintained areas.
This situation not only hampers tourism but also negatively impacts the local economy reliant on pilgrim tourism. According to statistics released last year, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a 30% drop in tourism footfall attributed to such infrastructural deficiencies.
The Congress party leaders demanded that the Jammu administration prioritize immediate rehabilitation for the Bagh-e-Bhau area, highlighting its importance for both cultural preservation and economic sustenance. “Tourism is a lifeline for many families here, and neglecting these routes jeopardizes their livelihoods,” said Kundal.
In response to these allegations, BJP representatives have stated they are working on several infrastructure improvement projects in the region. However, Bhalla and his colleagues remain skeptical, noting that claims do not align with ground realities.
The situation underscores a broader concern about governance in Jammu, especially in light of the region’s vital role in India’s pilgrimage tourism. As the winter months approach, the urgency for repairs and improvements becomes even more critical.
With the local elections approaching, these developments may influence the political landscape, as both parties aim to sway public perception regarding their commitments to infrastructure and tourism. Underlying these political maneuvers is the core question: How effectively can local governments maintain the pathways that sustain both spirituality and economic opportunity in Jammu?
The leaders have called for a series of public meetings to discuss further actions to revitalize the Bagh-e-Bhau circuit and ensure that it receives the attention it critically requires.
