Srinagar, Dec 23: Amid growing concerns over garbage disposal in Gulmarg, MLA Gulmarg Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah on Tuesday said the government has chalked out a comprehensive waste management plan, including the setting up of around 15 solid and liquid waste management plants at a cost of nearly Rs 40 crore.
Shah said the waste management initiative is part of a broader effort to upgrade Gulmarg’s infrastructure in line with its growing tourism profile. Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of inaugurations of healthcare infrastructure at SKIMS Bemina, Shah said the proposed facilities aim to ensure scientific handling of waste at the tourist resort, which has been witnessing increasing tourist footfall.
“These are modern plants that will handle both solid and liquid waste. Gulmarg will soon have one of the most modern waste management systems,” the MLA said, while seeking time for the completion of the project. Shah said that Gulmarg has the potential to become one of the world’s leading winter sports destinations, citing its affordability compared to European ski resorts.
Highlighting recent infrastructure additions, Shah said Asia’s longest drag lift has been commissioned in Gulmarg, while new facilities, including a revolving restaurant at Afarwat, have also been added. He said snow-making machines will be installed to extend the skiing season and reduce dependence on natural snowfall. “With continuous infrastructure upgrades, Gulmarg will, in the next four years, emerge as one of the best skiing destinations in the world,” the MLA said.