Srinagar, Apr 25: As part of Government’s endeavour to promote eco-tourism, authorities have started work on war-footing to revive the glory of the historic Chinar Bagh on the banks of Dal lake. 
Dotted with centuries old Chinars along its islands, Chinar Bagh in Chuntkul, the outflow channel of Dal, was till a few decades ago a favourite haunt of foreign tourists. But due to indifference of the successive regimes, Chinar Bagh was extensively encroached upon with hundreds of illegal hutments marring its pristine beauty. However, it was on orders of the High Court that the authorities removed the encroachments paving way for its revival.
“Chinar Bagh is being developed as a heritage park. We will be showcasing the rich culture of Kashmir in shape of its traditional food and handicrafts in the park,” Director Tourism Kashmir, Farooq Ahmad Shah told Greater Kashmir.
However, Shah maintained that eco-friendly material was being used to undertake construction of footpaths, benches and kiosks in the park. “Hopefull the park will be commissioned by June this year. We will also be launching ferry service around the islands of Chinar Bagh. This will be a major attraction for tourists and will not only help to revive the heritage park but reduce load on other tourist destinations in the City,” he said.
The vice-chairman of Lakes and Waterways Development Authority (LAWDA) Irfan Yasin said nearly 200 illegal structures were removed in Chinar Bagh. “We will soon start cleaning operation in the Chuntkul along the Chinar Bagh. We will extend all possible support to the Tourism authorities for revival of the heritage park,” Yasin said.
The former president of Houseboat Owners Association, Muhammad Azim Tuman said due to its picturesque ambience, Chinar Bagh was a favourite hangout for the British who used to pitch tents on the islands.
“The former prime minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Bakshi Ghulam Muhammad organised cultural events at Chinar Bagh. The park buzzed with foreign tourists who enjoyed the holidays amidst the shade of Chinars and gushing waters of Dal,” Tuman said.
He said Maharaja Hari Singh was mesmerized by the beauty of the Chinar Bagh that he personally monitored its preservation. “Better late than never, the authorities have woken up from slumber and started revival of the heritage park. But the endeavour should be sustained,” he added.

Lastupdate on : Sun, 25 Apr 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Sun, 25 Apr 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 IST