Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Oct 27: Former general secretary of Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), Jammu, Gaurav Gupta today called on Arun Mehta, Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir and submitted a memorandum of demands highlighting key demands for the development of the Jammu region.
The former general secretary appreciated the recent statement made by LG Sinha regarding the transformation of Srinagar into a Smart City. However, he emphasized the urgent need of similar initiatives in the Jammu region, acknowledging its unique cultural significance. He said the upcoming Legends League Cricket will play a vital role in boosting the morale of youth by motivating them towards adopting sports as a career.
Gaurav Gupta outlined a series of crucial measures that, if addressed promptly, can significantly contribute to the holistic development of Jammu. Among these measures is the expedited completion of ongoing projects under the Smart City initiative. Timely execution of these projects is seen as essential to fully realize the benefits and potential they hold for enhancing the region’s infrastructure and quality of life, he added.
He said tourism is a pivotal driver for local economies and a platform to showcase the natural beauty and cultural wonders of Jammu region. He stressed the pressing need for increased promotion of the region to attract tourists. This would not only boost the local economy but also significantly enhance the experience of visitors to Jammu, he added.
Gupta said that the Suchetgarh border’s retreat ceremony, symbolizing India’s rich military heritage. He called for its wider publicity, as increased awareness and participation would pay tribute to the armed forces and unlock the tourism potential of the area.
The memorandum also underscored the importance of timely completion of ongoing projects like the Tawi Barrage and Artificial Lake, which can provide recreational opportunities and address water resource management and flood control concerns. He also highlighted the need to enhance the tourist appeal of Jambu Zoo through infrastructure upgrades and educational programs that connect visitors with regional wildlife and nature.
“The historic Mubarak Mandi Complex holds deep sentimental value for the people of Jammu,” he said, calling for its preservation and the expedited continuation of restoration and maintenance works.
The Chief Secretary gave a patient hearing to the issues put forth by Gaurav Gupta, terming all the points are genuine and assured to take adequate measures in addressing the same on priority basis.