JAMMU, Jan 25: Patnitop Hotel and Restaurant Association has appealed the district administration of Udhampur and Ramban to clear the snow on Kud-Patnitop road on priority in the interest of tourists as well as hoteliers.
The Association expressed resentment over inadequate response of the authorities to the grievances of tourists visiting Patnitop. It alleged that despite the area receiving heavy snowfall, tourists who flocked to witness the scenic beauty were left stranded due to lack of snow clearance on the Kud-Patnitop road.
The situation has been exacerbated by the snapped power and water supply, which has not been restored even after 72 hours. Tourists are facing immense hardship, with many having to spend nights in their vehicles or makeshift shelters.
With a second western disturbance expected to affect Patnitop and surrounding areas from January 27-29, the Association urged the administration to take immediate action to restore roads, power, and water supply.
The current situation is likely to worsen with another spell of snowfall, and it’s imperative that tourists are not left stranded again.
The Association requested Lt Governor Manoj Sinha, who is the Chairman of Patnitop Dev Authority and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who is also Tourism Minister to take strong cognizance of current situation and issue necessary directions to the administration to prioritize the needs of tourists and take necessary measures to ensure their safety and comfort.
However, need of the day, Govt should look that whether CEO, PDA has bothered to write to any authority regarding the said crisis? Whether Directorate of Tourism showed its presence over the criss to resolve the issue?
Why new Master Plan not being implemented for better Infrastructure and more private investment to provide amenities to Tourists?
Moreover large number illegal construction coming up in Kud Patnitop belt.
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