Jammu and Kashmir government has prepared a Rs eight crore plan to the create Mughal Road-Poonch tourist circuit to boost economic activity in the area as per a PTI report."Development of tourism circuit along Mughal Road-Poonch is under active consideration of the government. For the purpose, a project report of Rs eight crore has been prioritised for Central funding to create necessary tourist infrastructure in the area," State Minister for Tourism and Culture Nawang Rogzin Jora said.

The Minister, who was chairing the meeting of Poonch Development Authority (PDA) here yesterday, said heritage Moti Mahal in Poonch would be converted into a Museum.The government's endeavour is aimed at showcasing the tourism potential of Poonch along the Mughal Road in and outside the country, Jora said, adding that the tourism potential of Poonch area is being tapped."Creation and upgradation of necessary tourist infrastructure facilities is underway.

New scenic spots like Pushana, Doogron, Chadinarh, Sailan, Bhuriekhat, Buffliaz, Mandi Phegla, Mandi Laran and Bhimber Gali, would be brought under the jurisdiction PDA for their development," he said.A lake circuit is also being also developed in the area for tourist attraction, the Minister said, adding that the matter of providing road connectivity at these lakes would be taken with concerned authorities.Due to increase in trade facilities across the Line of Control from Poonch, an interpretation centre would be created for visiting families and traders of both sides, he said.

Jora said promotion of heritage tourism in the area also receives focused attention of the government."The Centre has already approved state government's project for conservation and restoration of Poonch fort and has released Rs 3.79 crore after completion of codal formalities the conservation of the fort would be taken up," he said.