Jahangeer Ganaie
Srinagar, Feb 13 : Sarthal, a scenic tourist spot along the Pathankot-Bhaderwah road in Kathua district, remains largely underdeveloped despite its immense potential. Due to a lack of infrastructure and basic amenities, both locals and visiting tourists continue to face hardships.
Residents of the area told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that Sarthal, located in Bani tehsil, attracts a large number of tourists, yet suffers from the absence of essential facilities both en route and at the destination itself.
Mudasar Ali, a local social activist, said despite the challenging conditions, hundreds of tourists visit the region, proving its potential as a prime tourist destination. He compared Sarthal’s natural beauty to that of Pahalgam and Gulmarg but lamented that it receives little government attention.
One of the most pressing issues, he said, is the complete lack of mobile network coverage along a 30-kilometre stretch. This poses serious risks, as travellers are left without any means of communication in case of emergencies, he said.
“If a vehicle breaks down, the nearest repair facility is at least 20 to 25 kilometres away. Although a mobile tower was installed in the area following repeated pleas from the residents, it remains non-functional for unknown reasons,” Ali added.
Locals from Bani and nearby areas stated that Sarthal lacks basic infrastructure, with the landscape currently dominated by rocks rather than proper tourist facilities. They urged the government to take immediate action to develop the spot and bring other nearby places, such as Chattergala, Lowang, Roulka, Dhaggar, Duggan, Panyalang, Machedi and Malhar, onto the tourism map.
Many residents belong to financially weaker backgrounds and believe that the development of Sarthal could boost the local economy by creating employment opportunities. They demanded essential amenities like public toilets, night stay facilities and road improvements to enhance the tourist experience. They also called for the construction of the Chattergala Tunnel, a Gondola project, fountains and other attractions to make the area more appealing.
Locals sought the intervention of higher authorities, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and officials from the Tourism Department. They said the Jammu and Kashmir government recently initiated feasibility assessments for skiing at seven new tourist destinations—four in Kashmir and three in Jammu, including Sarthal. However, despite repeated government assurances, no significant development has taken place on the ground—(KNO)
