NVI Correspondent
Jammu, Dec 12 (NVI): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a crucial meeting today at the Civil Secretariat to review the functioning of the Department of Floriculture, Parks, and Gardens, ahead of the anticipated direct rail connectivity between Delhi and Kashmir. The meeting aimed to explore strategies to boost the floriculture sector and leverage the upcoming infrastructure for global market access.
The Chief Minister emphasized the vast opportunities the new rail link would present, particularly for expanding the reach of Kashmir’s flowers to markets across India and internationally. “We must engage progressive growers and other stakeholders to fully realize the sector’s potential,” said the Chief Minister.
During the meeting, Abdullah directed the department to plant tulips along the Airport Road to improve the aesthetic appeal and to launch advertising campaigns to attract more tourists to Srinagar’s iconic Tulip Garden.
A detailed presentation by Commissioner Secretary Sheikh Fayaz Ahmad highlighted key milestones and ongoing initiatives within the department. Notable developments include the Tulip Show 2024, where a record 1.7 million tulips of 72 varieties will be showcased, expected to attract 4.46 lakh tourists. Other significant projects discussed included the creation of ornamental cherry tree gardens (Sakura), a new Tulip Garden in Sanasar, and the establishment of peony and rose gardens in Pahalgam.
Additionally, the process of securing UNESCO World Heritage status for six historic Mughal Gardens was outlined, along with plans for modernizing and enhancing the region’s parks and gardens. Key projects included the upgradation of Bagh-e-Bahu Garden, the development of theme gardens at Gulmarg, and the creation of floriculture nurseries.
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of modernizing and mechanizing garden maintenance to improve efficiency, optimize resources, and generate revenue. He further urged the department to focus on projects that will enhance the tourism potential of Jammu and Kashmir while preserving its rich natural heritage.
The meeting was attended by Advisor to the CM Nasir Aslam Wani, ACS to CM Dheeraj Gupta, Commissioner Secretary Floriculture, Parks & Gardens Sheikh Fayaz Ahmad, and other concerned officials. (News Vibes of India)
