By Firdous Nazir
Nestled in the enchanting district of Kupwara in the Kashmir Valley, the Bungus Valley stands as a breathtaking testament to the beauty of nature. However, despite its awe-inspiring charm, this hidden gem is marred by accessibility issues that hinder the potential for tourism and exploration. As a passionate traveller, I recently experienced the unfortunate obstacles that prevented me and fellow adventurers from fully indulging in the wonders of this valley. In this article, I aim to shed light on the challenges faced and call upon the higher authorities, such as the Lt. Governor and the Director of Kashmir Tourism, to address these issues and make the Bungus Valley an accessible haven for all.
The Treacherous Road
The journey towards the Bungus Valley begins with a narrow road leading from Reshwari, a resting spot along the way. The road’s width poses a significant challenge for two vehicles to pass simultaneously. According to residents and travellers, the road is not wide enough to accommodate the increasing number of vehicles that visit the valley. This leads to traffic congestion and delays, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Moreover, the sharp turns along the route are so steep that even our cab had to reverse to regain momentum. Local reports indicate that accidents have occurred due to the difficulty of navigating these treacherous turns. There have been instances where vehicles have toppled over or collided with each other, posing a significant risk to travellers and locals alike.
While the Road and Bridge (R&B) authorities are commendablly working to improve the infrastructure, it is crucial to address the steepness of the turns to ensure safer and smoother travel. By employing engineering solutions, such as reducing the angle of the turns and widening the road, the authorities can enhance the accessibility of this captivating destination. This would not only improve safety but also promote tourism and encourage more visitors to explore the stunning Bungus Valley.
The Struggle for Accommodation
Upon reaching the Bungus Valley, I was met with a sense of awe and wonder—a dream come true. Eager to explore the valley and embark on a trekking adventure, I sought accommodation for the night. However, the process was far from straightforward. The manager of the lodging facilities directed me to a J&K policeman, who meticulously verified my identity, scrutinising my university ID and Aadhar card. While it is essential for security measures to be in place, such extensive checks can be an inconvenience for visitors. Streamlining the verification process without compromising security, would enhance the overall experience for travellers. Implementing a standardised and efficient system that incorporates modern technology and pre-verification procedures would reduce the time and effort required for authentication. This would not only benefit tourists but also relieve the burden on security personnel.
The Untimely Interruption
The border lies approximately 45 kilometres away from the valley, making this interference seem disproportionate and unjust. The sudden expulsion of tourists and their treatment as intruders or potential threats is a disheartening experience that leaves a negative impression on visitors.
Instances of such untimely interruptions and conflicting authorities can discourage tourists from visiting the Bungus Valley. It is essential for all concerned agencies, including the police and the army, to coordinate their efforts and establish clear protocols to avoid such unnecessary disruptions. By fostering better communication and understanding between the security forces and the tourism department, the Bungus Valley can be made more welcoming to visitors.
Appeal to Higher Authorities
Considering the challenges, it is imperative that we raise our voices and address these issues to the higher authorities responsible for the welfare of the region. The Lt. Governor and the director of tourism hold the power to effect change and transform the Bungus Valley into a thriving tourism hub, accessible to both locals and visitors alike.
By investing in infrastructure improvements, such as widening the road and implementing safer turns, they can facilitate smoother travel and encourage tourism. Conducting thorough assessments of the existing road conditions and seeking expert advice from civil engineers would help in identifying and implementing appropriate solutions. Additionally, collaboration between the various security agencies can streamline the verification process, ensuring visitors’ safety without subjecting them to undue inconvenience.
The Bungus Valley, with its breathtaking landscapes and serene wilderness, has the potential to become a coveted tourist destination. However, the current accessibility issues, including the treacherous road conditions and the disruptive encounters with security personnel, impede its progress. By highlighting these challenges and appealing to the higher authorities responsible for the region’s development, we hope to bring about positive change.
Let us work together to transform the Bungus Valley into a welcoming haven for adventurers, where dreams can be realised, and nature’s wonders can be fully appreciated. With the right infrastructure improvements and streamlined processes, the Bungus Valley can shine as a beacon of tourism in the Kashmir Valley, attracting visitors from far and wide. It is time to address these issues and unlock the full potential of this mesmerising paradise.
Views expressed in the article are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the editorial stance of Kashmir Observer
- The author is a Research Scholar, Central University of Haryana
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