Manasbal Lake in Kashmir gets facelift

Barammula (Jammu-Kashmir), Aug.17 (ANI): Efforts are on to beautify Kashmir's Manasbal lake and its adjoining garden to make it a tourist attraction.

According to the Kashmir tourism department, the area holds a big potential to attract tourists.

"Manasbal is part of Barahmula area and the government has taken into consideration the picturesque beauty of the place and that's why development is taking place at a rapid pace. Domestic tourists and those from abroad are visiting this place. The development would increase the tourism potential of the valley and it would greatly help the economy of the state," said Mohammad Salem, Joint Director of Jammu and Kashmir's Tourism Department.

Local residents welcome the development of the area.

"If we see this place from a tourist point of view, it's a very picturesque place. Many tourists are visiting this place and a lot of development work is taking place in this area like road construction, development of walkways and benches are being placed for the tourists. The development work is taking place in this area. Some new huts have been built up near the lake and some are under construction," said Abdul Qayoom, a resident.

"The government is also considering the development in this area for the past two-three years. There was no guesthouse in this area; the streetlights and footpaths have been constructed in Manasbal area. It will enhance the beauty of the lake," said Firdous Ahmad, another resident.

Almost 80 percent of the local population is directly or indirectly dependent on the tourism sector.

Manasbal Lake is the deepest lake in Srinagar. Efforts are on to boost the region's tourism industry.

At least 60 percent of Kashmiris depend on tourism for their livelihood. y Tahir Nadeem Khan (ANI)