LG reviews development of Hunderman as border, heritage tourism destination

Excelsior Correspondent

KARGIL, Sept 3: Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena today visited the historic Heritage Village of Hunderman, located near the Line of Control (LoC) in Kargil, and reviewed ongoing initiatives aimed at developing the border village as a prominent heritage and tourism destination in Ladakh.

During the visit, the LG emphasized the need to make Hunderman more accessible to visitors and position it prominently on Ladakh's tourism map. He said the village's strategic location, distinctive character and rich historical and cultural heritage give it immense potential to emerge as a unique destination showcasing the history and resilience of Ladakh's border areas.

The LG was briefed on the ongoing "Exploring LOC and Hunderman Village Experience" project, under which several tourist-friendly facilities are being developed. These include an LoC viewpoint, parking area, integrated amenity centre, information panels, walking promenade, landscaping, smart toilets, café, viewing facilities, safety lighting, CCTV surveillance, solar panels, flag and selfie points and electric vehicle charging facilities.

Saxena directed the concerned officials to complete the ongoing development works by the end of October this year. "Hunderman is not merely a border village; it is a living symbol of Ladakh's history, heritage and resilience," Saxena said, stressing his vision to make the village, described as the first Indian village on the LoC, accessible to visitors from across the country and the world.

He maintained that tourism development must remain community-centric, with increased tourist activity generating livelihood opportunities for local residents while preserving Hunderman's unique heritage and character.

During the visit, the LG also interacted with villagers and listened to their grievances. He reviewed the solar lift irrigation system being implemented to improve water availability for agricultural activities through renewable energy.

Chairman/CEC, LAHDC Kargil, Dr Mohd Jaffer Akhoon, Member of Parliament Ladakh Mohmad Haneefa Jan, the local Councillor and senior officials of the Tourism Department and local administration were present.