JKTDC aggressive on increasing revenues

Srinagar Aug 15 (UNI) The Committee on public undertakings (PUC) of the state assembly has lauded the efforts of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporaton (JKTDC) in turning it around into a profit making company.

JKTDC's earnings had plummeted during the period of insurgency in the state, but has managed a remarkable turnaround by reviving all its outlets and making the company self reliant.

JKTDC now plans to upgrade the existing 8,000 rooms it operates to cater to the needs of tourists with all latest facilities at its various tourist resorts, informed JKTDC Managing Director Abdul Aziz Wani to the PUC.

Spelling out the corporation's plan, Mr Wani apprised the committee that the corporation is now running on profit and to further boost its functioning the corporation proposes certain long term measures.

He said efforts are being made to further upgrade the existing infrastructure in phased manner with the available resources.

Mr Wani praised the earnest efforts of the corporation's officers who have been responsible in reviving it and making it profitable.

Efforts are on to open JKTDC units in areas where the corporation is yet to venture, the Managing Director added.

The committee members inspected the central heating system at Patnitop which has been completed at a cost of Rs 34 lakh.

The system would cater to 26 tourists bunglows located in Patnitop and the committee expressed satisfaction on the completion of this vital project.

The committee also inspected the under-construction Yatri Niwas at Kud which is expected to be completed shortly. This project would cost Rs 38 lakh and would cater to the need of a large number of tourists.

The committee suggested various measures to the corporation to improve its functioning and increase its income.

They asked JKTDC to explore the possibility of upgrading the existing accommodation at Sudh Mahadev and suggested leasing the space to interested parties as facilities for the pilgrims who throng the religions spot frequently.

UNI