Srinagar, Sep 25 : The Jammu and Kashmir government has told the Legislative Assembly during the ongoing autum session that Patnitop has not been declared a “World Class Tourist Destination” by the Centre and no central funds have been sanctioned or released for its development, even as it announced a comprehensive revision of the long-pending Patnitop Development Authority (PDA) Master Plan-2000.
Replying to a starred question by Chenani MLA Balwant Singh Mankotia, the Tourism Department as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) said the J&K government has, however, proposed Patnitop for consideration under the Centre’s “Globally Competitive Tourism Destination Scheme.”
“A preliminary survey for identification of suitable land parcels, along with comprehensive stakeholder consultation conferences, has already been completed. Consequently, all requisite ground data and basic details for the proposal are being compiled,” the government said in its written reply. “No funds have so far been sanctioned/released for the proposed project by the Govt. of India.”
On the delay in revising the PDA Master Plan-2000, the government as per KNS said the Tourism Department has initiated a comprehensive revision and preparation of Master Plans for various development authorities, including the PDA.
“This strategic initiative aims to address rapid urban growth, modern infrastructure demands and sustainable spatial development across the region. By modernizing these spatial frameworks, the department seeks to optimize land use efficiency, improve public amenities, and establish a clear roadmap for long-term development,” the reply stated.
A Request For Proposal (RFP), finalized by a government-constituted Steering Committee, has been floated to engage a consultant for preparing the Master Plan.
The government said construction norms applicable to hilly areas are proposed to be reviewed, wherever required, keeping in view local terrain, geological and structural safety considerations, environmental sensitivity, carrying capacity, infrastructure requirements and tourism potential.
“Any modification in construction norms, zoning regulations, land-use classification or other planning parameters shall be considered in accordance with the prevailing laws, rules and applicable planning/building regulations, after due assessment and consultation with the concerned stakeholders,” it said. The Unified Building Bye-Laws, 2021, are already implemented in the PDA’s jurisdiction, the government added.
Furnishing year-wise data on building permissions, the government said in 2024-25, the PDA received 6 commercial and 42 residential applications. While 3 commercial and 18 residential cases were approved, 3 commercial and 24 residential cases were rejected, with no cases pending at the end of the year.
In 2025-26 so far, of 10 commercial and 60 residential cases received, 4 commercial and 16 residential cases have been approved, while 3 commercial and 41 residential cases were rejected. Three cases in each category are currently pending.
The government attributed the pendency to the deployment of the PDA’s Chief Executive Officer on official duty at Baltal for the Shri Amarnath Yatra 2026, which prevented the Building Operations Controlling Authority (BOCA) from convening.
“All the pending cases are expected to be placed before BOCA in its next meeting,” the reply assured. (KNS)
