Poonch, May 12:  The Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, has underscored the importance of eco-tourism for conservation and protection of state’s natural resorts and green wealth.
 “Tourist infrastructure should necessarily be in conformity with the environment and ecology of the area”, he said adding that government has given categorical directions for creation of environment friendly tourist facilities in the new areas to be showcased for national and international tourism.
 Addressing a public gathering after inaugurating Rs 35 lakh eco-tourism facility at Dera Ki Gali on Mughal road this afternoon, the Chief Minister said that preservation of tourist resorts and green wealth along with water bodies and environment was the need of hour. “Everyone of us has to contribute positively in this stupendous task”, he said asking the people to be part of the government’s strategy for protection of environment and ecology of the state.
 Omar said that haphazard constructions and big buildings at various tourist places have told upon the scenic beauty and serenity of these places. “Such a practice should not be repeated in other areas”, he asserted.
 The Chief Minister also laid foundation of the walk ways and tracks for tourists to move around on foot and enjoy the beauty of the area. This is the part of Rs. 9 crore eco-tourism project envisaged for the Dera-ki-Gali and adjacent areas.
 The Minister for Forests, Mian Altaf Ahmad, Minister of State for Power, Shabir Ahmad and others were also present on the occasion.

Lastupdate on : Wed, 12 May 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Wed, 12 May 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Thu, 13 May 2010 00:00:00 IST