Bhaderwah/Jammu, Jan 10: Security arrangements have been intensified across snow-bound tourist destinations in Bhaderwah area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district following a sharp surge in tourist arrivals over the past two weeks, officials said on Saturday.
They said visible deployment of security personnel at popular high-altitude meadows, including Chattargalla (11,000 ft), Panj Nallah (10,200 ft) and Guldanda (9,555 ft) along the Bhaderwah–Pathankot highway, aims to boost visitors’ confidence and maintain strict vigilance to ensure their safety.
Despite harsh weather conditions and sub-zero night temperatures, the presence of Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG), paramilitary forces and local police has helped allay initial apprehensions among tourists, enabling them to enjoy snowfall and other winter activities.
Superintendent of Police Vinod Sharma said Bhaderwah attracts a large number of tourists, but heavy snowfall in surrounding high-altitude areas poses security challenges as visitors tend to venture into snow-covered meadows and passes, particularly along the Bhaderwah–Pathankot Highway and Bhaderwah–Chamba inter-state road. He said security forces are providing round-the-clock cover to ensure tourists feel completely secure.
Tourists have also lauded the arrangements and local hospitality. Vishal Sharma, a visitor from Maharashtra, said police presence along snow-covered passes such as Guldanda and Chattargalla ensured a safe and enjoyable experience. Another tourist, Satish Singh Jhadav from Gujarat, said adequate check posts and the supportive attitude of policemen made the trip comfortable.
Local stakeholders attributed the tourism boom to timely snowfall and a robust security grid. Rashid Choudhary, a local resident, said the Jammu and Kashmir Police deserve appreciation for maintaining round-the-clock security at high altitudes despite limited resources.
According to Guldanda Vendors Association president Yasir Wani, more than 19,000 tourists have visited the destination in the last 15 days after the first snowfall.
Meanwhile, residents and tourism stakeholders have welcomed the Centre’s decision to construct a multi-crore cable car project from Mathola village to the 12,500-foot-high Seoj Dhar meadow near the Kailash Kund glacier. Union Minister Jitendra Singh recently said bids for preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) have been invited and are likely to be finalised by the end of January.
Bhaderwah is also gearing up for a two-day winter festival scheduled for January 17 and 19 at Guldanda and the New Bus Stand. Doda Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh said comprehensive security arrangements will be in place to ensure the safety of tourists and residents during the festival. (Agencies)
