AJK plans five major public parks to boost tourism in Neelum valley

Neelum : Neelum Valley has gained special importance in the 100-day reform and development program of the Government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The AJK Department of Tourism, in its development plan, has declared Neelum Valley as its favourite and announced the construction of 5 major public parks, for which the initial survey process has been successfully completed.

According to sources, promotion of tourism has been given top priority in the 100-day agenda of the new PML-N government of Azad Kashmir. In this regard, a joint expert team of the Department of Tourism and NESPAK conducted a detailed visit to various tourist spots in Neelum Valley.

The team, with the help of modern GIS system and drone cameras, examined the location, area and construction aspects of the proposed parks. This survey report will soon be sent to the Government of Azad Kashmir for final approval and release of funds.

The initial survey includes Athmuqam Bypass Baila, Karen Baila, Upper Neelum Resort, Baboon Valley, Khawaja Seri, Kel Seri, Arang Kel and Taobat. On 5 of the best locations among these, international standard family parks will be constructed which will provide children’s swings, walking tracks, family huts and other tourist facilities.

Regarding this project, AD Tourism Malik Murtaza told the media that not only parks but 15 new hiking tracks have also been identified for the promotion of adventure tourism in Neelum Valley and a detailed report has been submitted to the department.

He said that this project will not only promote local tourism but will also create employment opportunities for thousands of local youth. Local people and tourism circles have welcomed this initiative of the Government of Azad Kashmir and the Department of Tourism.