Jammu, September 25 – JKPCC Working President Raman Bhalla, along with former ministers Yogesh Sawhney and Yash Pal Kundal, expressed grave concerns over the deteriorating conditions of the pilgrim-tourist circuit from Balidaan Stambh to Bagh-e-Bahu.
During their visit, the Congress leaders criticized the BJP-ruled government, accusing it of neglecting this vital tourist infrastructure for over a decade. The circuit, which connects significant sites like Har ki Poudi and the Herbal Garden, has suffered from shabby road conditions, rendering it unsafe and uninviting for tourists and pilgrims alike.
Bhalla specifically pointed out the neglect that this area has faced since the BJP took over power in the region, emphasizing the need for immediate repairs and renovations. The entire stretch from Balidaan Stambh to Bagh-e-Bahu, he said, has fallen into a state of disrepair, largely due to the lack of ongoing maintenance and infrastructure upgrades.
BJP-led governments have overlooked this crucial tourist route, causing significant damage, especially evident after recent rains and floods. Bhalla remarked that the conditions starkly contrast with the developments promised during BJP’s tenure, which he labeled as failing to live up to expectations.
The Congress leaders expressed their dissatisfaction, stating, “The government has failed to provide adequate services to both pilgrims and tourists, and the lack of attention to this project highlights a broader trend of neglect in Jammu.”
Moreover, Bhalla criticized the BJP for repeatedly making false promises regarding the beautification of Jammu city and its surrounding areas. He argues that such hollow slogans do little to improve the actual conditions on the ground.
“The BJP’s failure to act on their claims of promoting pilgrim tourism is clear. It has become plain that their assurances were just election rhetoric,” Bhalla stated. He also questioned how the government could allow such crucial infrastructure to become so degraded, especially given it was originally developed under Congress leadership.
Support from prominent Congress leaders including Diwan Chand and Latish Sharma during the visit underscored a united front against the BJP’s governance. These officials echoed Bhalla’s concerns, stating that the BJP has inadequately managed infrastructure projects across Jammu.
As the Congress party rallies for immediate governmental action, Bhalla’s probing comments serve as a stark reminder of ongoing issues faced by the people of Jammu. This neglect threatens not just pilgrim tourism but also local economies reliant on these vital connections.
The issues surrounding the Bagh-e-Bhau pilgrim-tourist circuit now gain urgency, compelling local officials to acknowledge the deteriorating landscape and act promptly.
