Chairman of Peoples Democratic Front (PDF), Hakeem Yaseen has expressed dismay over the slow pace of tourism development in Doodpathri and Tossamaidan in central Kashmir’s Budgam district.
Addressing a publicgathering here he said, “both the tourism development authorities at Doodpathriand Tossamaidan have miserably failed to explore the full tourism potential dueto non availability of adequate funds and technical manpower.”
“Doodpathri- Tossamaidan tourism belt has been the victim ofgovernment apathy and neglect despite the fact that the area posses vast andvaried tourism potential which needs to be explored optimally. The DoodpathriGondola project could not take off during last 16 years despite the fact itsDPR stands finalized in 2003. Tall claims of the Tourism Department aboutpromotion and showcasing of Doodpathri and Tossamaidan as major tourismattractions have proved to be hollow,” he added.
Commenting on Union Budget proposals, Hakeem Yaseendescribed it “Old wine in new bottles”. There was nothing for the developmentof tourism, horticulture, trade and industry in the budget,” Hakeem Yaseenremarked. He demanded a special package for development and promotion of thesesectors of vital economic important.