Envisage futuristic plan for development of Katra: J-K Min

Jammu and Kashmir Minister Nawang Rigzin Jora today stressed the need to envisage a rational and futuristic plan for the development of Mata Vaishno Devi base-camp town of Katra.
"There is a need for envisaging a rational and futuristic growth plan for Katra town- the base camp of cave shrine of Mata Vaishnodevi- for sustainable development and infrastructural expansion", Jora said.
He was speaking at an officer's meet held to review the draft master plan for Katra Town here.
"The plan must cater to the ever increasing influx of Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrims in the town," the Minister for Urban Development and Urban Local Bodies said.

He said it is vital that a comprehensive plan is prepared in consultation with the concerned line departments and detailed field analysis is done so that the plan incorporates and contemplates the future growth pattern and strives at maintaining the ecology.
He stressed on strict adherence to the land use and guidelines for the purpose to enhance local urban infrastructure.

He asked the concerned authorities to take concrete steps for scientific management of solid-waste in the town to check pollution and protect the environment.
The Minister also reviewed the draft master plan for Ransoo-base camp of Shiv Khori shrine in Reasi district and stressed that the Shrine is fast emerging as an important destination for pilgrims.

The master plan should be rationally designed for extending the facilities to the tourists, he added.