Srinagar, June 3: Journalist, author, anchor, and social activist Faiyaz Jamal Bhat met Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday and submitted two detailed memorandums seeking the revival of tourism in Noorabad, Kulgam, and the introduction of comprehensive welfare measures for journalists, writers, and literary figures across Jammu and Kashmir.
In his first memorandum, Bhat highlighted the vast tourism potential of Noorabad and urged the administration to take immediate steps to revive and reopen Aharbal, one of Kashmir’s most renowned tourist destinations. He noted that the scenic spot has remained adversely affected due to security concerns that emerged following the Pahalgam incident, resulting in severe economic hardship for hundreds of families directly and indirectly dependent on tourism.
Bhat described Aharbal, often referred to as the “Niagara Falls of Kashmir,” as a major attraction that has historically drawn visitors from across the country and contributed significantly to the local economy. He appealed to the Lieutenant Governor to facilitate the restoration of tourism activities in the area and ensure adequate measures for the safe movement of visitors. He also emphasized the need to address the financial difficulties faced by those whose livelihoods are linked to Aharbal.
The memorandum further called for the promotion and development of other scenic destinations in Noorabad, including Charinbal and Pazenpathri. According to Bhat, these locations possess immense tourism potential, and their development could generate employment opportunities for local youth while boosting economic activity in the region.
As part of his tourism development proposals, Bhat also suggested the establishment of a cable car project at Aharbal. He stated that such a project could transform the area into a major tourist hub, improve infrastructure, attract more visitors, and create sustainable employment opportunities for the local population.
In his second memorandum, Bhat urged the administration to formulate a comprehensive media welfare policy for journalists in Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed out that media professionals are increasingly facing financial challenges and require institutional support to effectively carry out their responsibilities.
The memorandum also proposed the establishment of Press Clubs or Media Centres in every district to provide journalists with dedicated workspaces, professional facilities, networking opportunities, and avenues for skill development.
Drawing attention to the challenges faced by local writers , Bhat said that the absence of a structured financial support system forces many literary figures to fund the publication of their books from their own resources.
He called upon the administration to introduce a dedicated policy for writers and literary personalities, including financial assistance for deserving authors and a formal mechanism for purchasing books authored by local writers for schools, colleges, universities, and public libraries.
According to the memorandum, such initiatives would not only promote literary and cultural activities but also help preserve the region’s intellectual and cultural heritage. Furthermore, they would provide emerging writers with opportunities to showcase their talent despite financial constraints.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha listened attentively to the issues and proposals presented by Bhat and assured him that the matters raised in the memorandums would receive due consideration.
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