A tourist cafeteria and a gazebo at Galganzar in Zachaldara, in the foothills of Bangus Valley, have been lying abandoned for years, with locals accusing the authorities of neglect and demanding their immediate renovation.
Residents told Greater Kashmir that the cafeteria was built nearly a decade ago but has never been handed over to the Tourism Department.
“The building was completed, but it was never made functional. We don’t know why it has been left to decay,” said Farooq Bhat, a resident.
He said the government had spent a huge amount on the project, but the building was now deteriorating due to official neglect.
“The windowpanes and glass have been damaged by miscreants. Had the building not been left unattended, it would still be in good condition,” Bhat said.
Residents said the cafeteria, located along the Handwara-Rajwar-Bangus road, could serve as a halt for tourists visiting Bangus Valley and help promote tourism in the area.
“It can also generate employment for local youth, who can set up stalls and sell their products,” a local youth said.
Former District Development Council (DDC) member from Rajwar, Sulaiman Mir, said the Zachaldara cafeteria was not the only abandoned tourism asset in the area.
“Tourist huts at Wader Balla and Wader Payeen have also been left unattended, causing inconvenience to tourists visiting Bangus Valley,” he said.
Mir also raised the issue of watch and ward employees posted at these facilities.
He said the workers, engaged on a temporary basis, had not received salaries for several months.
“They are already poorly paid and salaries are often delayed. They have now gone without wages for months,” Mir said, urging the government to release their pending dues.
MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone said several tourism-related structures across Kupwara district had been abandoned.
“I will take up the issue with the concerned department,” he said.
About The Author
