JK CM for constituting expert group to study Ahrabal fall

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today expressed concern over reports of dwindling level of famed Aharabal fall in south Kashmir and directed for constitution of an expert group to suggest measures to deal with the problem.
Mehbooba passed the direction at a joint meeting of Ahrabal, Kokernag and Verinag tourism development authorities here today, an official spokesman said.
The chief minister said the expert group comprising subject experts and engineers would study the problem and come up with suggestions to arrest the decline of the fall, which has been a major tourist attraction in the past.
She directed exploiting the potential of Daksum, Margan Top, Kongawaten, meadows of Noorabad and other places in the region for tourism promotion.

Mehbooba suggested introduction of white water rafting, eco tourism and showcasing ethnic culture at these places to attract and sustain the tourist footfall.
She also directed raising of more facilities of public convenience along the roads to these places.

The chief minister also directed development of a pony track from Kungwaten to Guriwatan and construction of a foot bridge at Sangam connecting the area with Shopian.
As a specific direction, Mehbooba asked the Tourism Department to include restoration of shrines, mosques, temples and gurduwaras at these tourist destinations as part of the beautification activity, the spokesman said.
She also directed conservation of Tashan spring at Kokernag, development of Mehmoodgami Park at Verinag and other water bodies at these tourist places, he said.