NVI Correspondent
Jammu, NOV 22 (NVI) : Following the successful Kashmir Marathon, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo today convened a meeting with the Tourism Department to review preparations for the upcoming Jammu Marathon, scheduled for February 2025.
The meeting, attended by key officials including the Commissioner Secretary, Tourism, ADGP Jammu, SSP Traffic Jammu, and Directors of Tourism from both Kashmir and Jammu regions, focused on finalizing details for the marathon and exploring opportunities for further adventure tourism development in the region.
Marathon Preparations
Dulloo emphasized the importance of planning routes and formats that would not only accommodate professional runners but also attract fitness enthusiasts from across the country. He encouraged the Tourism Department to incorporate feedback from professional athletes and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the event’s success.
Given Jammu’s unique terrain, the Chief Secretary suggested routes that would highlight the city’s natural beauty while generating buzz nationwide. He also proposed the idea of hosting an ultra-trail run connecting popular tourist destinations such as Surinsar, Mansar, and other scenic spots along the way.
The Commissioner Secretary of Tourism, Yasha Mudgal, presented the Department’s plans for the marathon, including proposed routes through northern Jammu (Nagrota) and southern areas like Suchetgarh. She confirmed the event would take place in the second week of February 2025 and would be promoted extensively across India. Mudgal also highlighted efforts to bring in international athletes and national icons for promotional activities, making this the first-ever Jammu Marathon.
The Tourism Department also plans to introduce an adventure swimming contest in one of Kashmir’s fresh water lakes next summer. The event will adhere to international standards, with modalities and logistics currently being worked out.
Skiing Destination Development
In addition to the marathon discussions, the Chief Secretary reviewed the Department’s efforts to expand skiing opportunities throughout J&K. Dulloo proposed engaging a consultancy of international renown, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering (IISM), to explore new areas with potential for skiing, akin to Gulmarg’s famous slopes.
The meeting was informed that snow drag lifts are being developed at emerging skiing destinations such as Sanasar (Patnitop), Padri (Baderwah), Doodhpathri, and Sonamarg. Plans for additional infrastructure development to support skiing tourism across J&K were also discussed, aiming to further elevate the region’s adventure sports offerings.(News Vibes of India)
