No Separate Tourism Authority Proposed for Uri, Says Jammu Kashmir Govt  | Kashmir Life

SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government on Thursday informed the Legislative Assembly that there is no proposal under consideration to set up a separate Tourism Development Authority for Uri in Baramulla district. However, it said promotion of border and eco-tourism in the area will be undertaken in phases.

Responding to a query by MLA Sajad Shafi, the government acknowledged Uri’s significant tourism potential, particularly in border tourism, eco-tourism, pilgrimage-linked travel and nature-based activities. It said the department is aware of the constituency’s strengths, including wildlife, scenic landscapes and heritage-linked circuits.

Despite recognising the potential, the government clarified that no proposal is currently being examined for establishing a dedicated authority for planned promotion, regulation or infrastructure development in Uri.

The House was informed that the region offers opportunities for trekking routes, waterfalls, border area tourism experiences and nature-based visitation, subject to accessibility and adequate visitor facilities.

On future initiatives, the government said development of border and eco-tourism in Uri, including the Boniyar-Uri belt, will be carried out in a phased manner, subject to policy approvals.

The department emphasised that it is prioritising environmentally sustainable and community-based tourism models. It highlighted low-impact initiatives such as homestays to generate livelihood opportunities for local youth while ensuring environmental conservation.

According to the government, registration of homestays under notified guidelines is being facilitated across North Kashmir, including remote and border areas. Five homestays have so far been registered in the Boniyar-Uri area, marking initial progress in promoting inclusive tourism in the border region.