Jammu and Kashmir government plans to boost border tourism specifically in the Suchetgarh area because it is relatively more peaceful compared to the other sectors along the IB.
India’s sensitive International Border (IB) with Pakistan may soon turn into a tourist hot spot at Suchetgarh in Jammu. Parades similar to those held at Wagah border will be performed by Border
Security Force personnel. Not just that, to attract more tourists, there are plans to build a Warrior Museum, restaurants and cafeterias, a 5-D theatre, etc.
The 192-km International Border in Jammu has witnessed unprecedented ceasefire violations from Pakistan since 2003, after truce was announced. Scores of civilians and security force personnel have died in the cross border firing and shelling along the IB.
Jammu and Kashmir government plans to boost border tourism specifically in the Suchetgarh area because it is relatively more peaceful compared to the other sectors along the IB.
“We are developing Suchetgarh as a tourist spot. The historic Octroi post is located here,” said Smita Sethi, Director, Tourism Department, Jammu.
The cynosure of the tourism plan remains the Wagah-style parade by BSF troops. “It has not started as yet, but the BSF has started preparations from their end for the parade. We will begin the parades regardless of Pakistan’s participation,” said Sethi.
The state government has plans to erect a gallery for the viewers, too, so that their experience is akin to that at Wagah. Estimated to cost around Rs 7 crore, the border tourism project is touted to be completed by March 2019. “More than 50 per cent of the work on the project is done already,” said Sethi.
Under the project, the heritage octrio post is being developed and a museum-cum-gallery housing war artifacts is being set up at Suchetgarh.
“The museum will commemorate the bravery of our soldiers. Artifacts of historical importance will also be displayed in the museum. We are also establishing a 5-D or 7-D theatre, mostly for the purpose of broadcasting patriotic films,” she said.
Official figures reveal that around 500 to 1,000 people visit Suchetgarh border every day. “During Amarnath yatra, we started a bus service for border tourism on an experimental basis. Later, it gained popularity,” said Sethi.
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