Early Times Report
Jammu, Nov 17: Developed on the embankment of Ranjit Sagar dam to promote tourism in Basohli, the view point is in shambles due to negligence of the authorities.
Around five years ago, the view point, comprising several huts, was constructed by the Tourism Department. But due to poor approach of the Tourism authorities, the view point is losing its sheen. "The Tourism Department is not caring about the maintenance of view point", said some local residents.
"It was a visionary step to construct the view point, because it catches panoramic view of wide speared lake and newly constructed bridge that connects J&K with Himachal Pradesh and Punjab", said a visitor. He said that after opening of rope-bridge on river Ravi in Basohli, the number of tourists has increased.
Local residents informed Early Times that initially the Tourism Department maintained the view point, but with passage of time, it became a filthy view point.
"People visited the view point earlier, but now it has failed to attract visitors", said Surinder Sharma, a local resident.
"There is an ancient temple of Lord Shiva near the view point. Those who visit the temple also used to visit the view point", said Ranjit Raina, a local, adding that since non-maintenance of the spot, it has lost its charm.
Raina said that it was also responsibility of local police to keep a check on those who use the spot for drinking. "There are huge number of empty bottles of alcohol around the view point", he added.
"J&K state has huge potential for tourism, and Basholi too has various tourist spots", said Arun Gupta. "But instead of taking care of existing developed spots, the Tourism Department is focusing on raising more infrastructure, rather than maintaining the existing one."
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