Srinagar, Sep 18 : Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said the newly inaugurated Gulmarg Convention Centre should emerge as a hub for international and recreational events and must not meet the same fate as Pahalgam Club, which has struggled due to lack of use and maintenance.
Omar said the convention centre was much needed and should now be marketed properly.
According to KNS, he said that they are discussing whether to connect it with SKICC so that it can be marketed as a package, adding that Gulmarg has the potential to host major gatherings.
Referring to the global business summit in Switzerland, he said that people often talk about Davos, Asian Davos, or Indian Davos, and Gulmarg too could aspire to host regular high-profile events, even if not on that scale.
Omar said that the centre should aim for at least two to four annual events drawing participants from across the world.
Speaking on the lack of evening activities for tourists in Gulmarg during winters, Omar recommended using the facility for coffee shops, restaurants, and digital cinema. He said this would not only enhance the visitor experience but also increase the centre’s revenue.
He further said that the facility should serve multiple purposes, including conferences, MICE tourism, weddings, and recreational events. Without proper use, he said, such assets risk becoming a financial burden.
Referring to the Pahalgam Club, Omar said its decline was due to underuse and it must serve as a reminder to ensure Gulmarg does not face the same fate.(KNS)
