* Reviews functioning of TDAs
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Feb 19: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, today chaired a high level meeting to assess and expedite efforts for revival, restoration, preservation and maintenance of the rich heritage and architectural legacy of Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting focused on key heritage projects besides working out modalities for ensuring promotion and preservation of the region’s unique blend of cultural and traditional legacy in the form of exquisite manuscripts.
Present in the meeting were Commissioner Secretary, IT Department; Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir/Jammu; Commissioner Secretary, Culture; Secretary, PWD; Commissioner, JMC; Director, Archaeology & Archives; Chief Engineers and other concerned officers.
The Chief Secretary issued several key directives regarding framing of incentive based policy for digitization of valuable manuscripts lying with the public. He emphasized for acknowledging the contributors by returning their original manuscripts post-digitization to encourage wider participation in this heritage preservation initiative.
Observing the current status of different architecture and heritage conservation projects, the Chief Secretary asked the Department of Archaeology & Archives to intensify the restoration efforts, ensuring visible progress on ground. The department was also impressed upon to utilize released funds effectively to meet project deadlines.
As far as the cultural revitalization of Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex (MMHC) is concerned, the Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, was directed to transform MMHC into a culturally vibrant space by organizing cultural evenings in collaboration with the Academy of Art, Culture & Languages.
The Chief Secretary also emphasized upon the need for adaptive reuse of restored structures at MMHC. He tasked the Department of Archaeology with developing a robust reuse plan for restored structures at MMHC. He noticed that failure to repurpose these structures would undermine the restoration efforts made so far. He maintained that keeping such structures idle would render them into dilapidation which is highly unacceptable.
Regarding engagement of Transaction Advisor (TA) for heritage hotel at MMHC, the Chief Secretary advised the concerned to approach the Finance Department seeking their guidance on engaging TA for the adaptive re-use of this valuable heritage property. This included the proposed heritage hotel, to be developed under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model on a Design, Build, Finance, Operate and Transfer (DBFOT) basis for development of sustainable tourism in the Jammu city.
In order to promote the region’s cultural heritage, the Chief Secretary called for instituting awards recognizing outstanding contributions in preserving J&K’s cultural identity. He also suggested holding painting competitions highlighting the lives and contributions of saints like Lal Ded to educate younger generations and inculcate in them the aesthetic value of our significant heritage and traditions prevalent here in the past.
The Chief Secretary reviewed the progress made in formulation of Detailed Project Report (DPR) for modernization of SPS Museum, Srinagar, and instructed its finalization within 15 days. He emphasized upon taking up this work for execution in the upcoming summer season.
Meanwhile, Chief Secretary chaired a meeting to review and strengthen the functioning of various Tourism Development Authorities (TDAs) across Jammu and Kashmir.
He emphasised the need to make these bodies more meaningful by enhancing their operational efficiency and resource base.
The Chief Secretary stressed the importance of making the TDAs self-sustainable. He directed the Finance and Tourism Departments to ensure devolution of resources and empower TDAs with the ability to generate revenue from their assets. He further instructed for demarcation of TDA-owned lands, thereby granting them better control and management over these crucial assets.
To bolster the authorities further, he called for an increase in manpower and stronger enforcement capabilities to establish their authority effectively within their respective jurisdictions. He asked the Finance Department to take proactive measures in this regard and support at least a couple of TDAs each year for their sustainable development.
Recognizing the need for structured growth, the Chief Secretary directed for formulation of a master plan for each TDA to ensure systematic and well planned tourism development. He underscored the necessity of such strategic planning to boost the tourism sector and create more opportunities for economic growth in the region.
Addressing concerns about wayside amenities, the Chief Secretary instructed the Tourism Department to collaborate with the Highway Authorities and the Public Works Department (PWD) to assess the current status of facilities available for tourists. He asked them to identify and bridge the gaps in roadside amenities along highways and other roads leading to tourism destinations.
Commissioner Secretary, Tourism, Yasha Mudgal, informed that consultations are going on with the Sulabh International Social Service Organisation to explore the possibility of signing an MoU for operation and maintenance of toilet facilities at various tourist locations.
Secretary, PWD, Bhupinder Kumar, asserted that the Chief Engineers from PW (R&B) Department have been tasked to develop concept plans for constructing toilet complexes and parking spaces in strategic locations. He said that the R&B and Tourism Departments will conduct a gap analysis to assess areas along major highways that lack adequate amenities.
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