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SDA Plans Major Tourism Boost In Sonamarg

  • Umer Raina
  • Comments 0
  • 29 Apr 2026

New Parks, Youth Hostel Upgrade in Pipeline says Chief Executive Officer

Ganderbal, Apr 28: The Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) is set to roll out a series of infrastructure and tourism focused projects aimed at enhancing visitor experience and strengthening facilities in the picturesque tourist destination.

 

In an interview with Rising Kashmir Chief Executive Officer SDA Bilal Mukhtar (JKAS), said that the children’s park developed under Phase-I has been completed with installation of play equipment to be taken up shortly. He added that fencing work in the main bowl area will also be undertaken to improve safety and aesthetics.

 

Highlighting new initiatives Bilal Mukhtar revealed that a major park project worth ₹2 crore has been proposed at Shutkadi, aimed at creating an additional recreational space for tourists and locals alike.

 

The CEO further said that the existing youth hostel in Sonamarg will be upgraded with internal heating facilities to better accommodate school children and stranded passengers, particularly those travelling towards Ladakh. We already have basic facilities in place but heating will make it more comfortable during harsh weather, he noted.

 

On sanitation infrastructure Mukhtar informed that sewerage drainage works under Phase-I have been completed while Phase-II proposals have been submitted under CAPEX and are awaiting approval.

 

Addressing tourism development he emphasized that boosting tourism is a collective responsibility. Tourism is the livelihood of many pony wallas, guides, hoteliers, traders and all stakeholders must work with honesty to provide a welcoming environment so that visitors leave as ambassadors of Jammu and Kashmir, he said.

 

The SDA is also focusing on the repair and renovation of its existing assets including huts in areas like Gagangeer and Hung, many of which have deteriorated over time. Mukhtar said these works are part of a continuous process and have been included in upcoming CAPEX plans.

 

Expressing concern over sanitation issues in certain locations including truck yards, he said immediate action is taken upon receiving complaints. We recently restored water facilities after receiving a video highlighting poor conditions. We urge people to bring such issues to our notice for prompt action, he added.

 

On cleanliness measures, Mukhtar said SDA has a regular sanitation contract covering areas from Hung to Nilgrath, with waste being scientifically processed at the Sarbal treatment plant. He also announced upcoming cleanliness and plantation drives in collaboration with NGOs like Go Green.

 

Appealing to stakeholders and tourists, he urged responsible waste disposal. Dustbins have been installed at several locations and everyone must ensure proper use to keep Sonamarg clean, he said.

 

Additionally, SDA is enhancing facilities in the Glacier Zone, including installation of temporary toilets and additional dustbins expected to be operational in the coming weeks.

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