Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, Sept 9: Minister for Forests, Ecology and Environment Ch. Lal Singh said that efforts are afoot to develop eco tourism infrastructure around Ranjit Sagar Lake to make it a major tourist destination of the State.
The Minister said Forest Department is going to launch steamer service in Ranjit Sagar Lake for which four steamers will be pressed into service under its eco-tourism initiative shortly.
He was addressing people after kick starting tourism infrastructure works coming up at an estimated cost of Rs 4.5 cr at Panagar, Basohli.
Ch Lal Singh also laid foundation stone of ‘Reporting Centre and Watch Tower of Forest Protection Force at Panagar to be completed at an estimated cost of Rs 50 lakh.
Highlighting the tourism potential of Basohli, Ch Lal Singh said the area has all ingredients to attract high end tourists. “With increased footfall of tourist the art of Basohli paintings and Pashmina will also get new lease of life and create employment opportunities for the local stakeholders, he added.
While listing tourism infrastructure facilities being developed around Ranjit Sagar, the Minister informed that a five kilometer bridal path will be developed along the Lake having resting benches and view platforms. He said the tourists can have good view of serene Ranjit Sagar Lake and also enjoy boating.
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) will also explore the possibilities of operating water transport facilities in the lake which are not only affordable but also less time consuming, he said.
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