Budgam: The scenic slopes and meadows of Yousmarg are set for a major transformation. Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather announced on Friday that the government will prioritize developing Yousmarg as the “next Gulmarg,” positioning it as a modern tourist hub.
Rather was speaking at the inauguration of a new Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Nagbal, Charar-i-Sharief Constituency, built at a cost of ₹1.88 crore.
He outlined a sweeping vision: Yousmarg will soon be equipped with world-class facilities including a gondola (cable car), all-weather roads, skiing tracks, and modern recreational amenities. This development, Rather emphasized, aims to uplift the socio-economic conditions of local residents, especially in the underdeveloped kandi areas.
“We are committed to ensuring that Yousmarg emerges as a key tourist destination with the same recognition as Gulmarg,” the Speaker said.
Yousmarg, known for its pristine meadows and pine forests, has long been seen as an underutilized gem in Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism landscape. While Gulmarg draws thousands of domestic and international visitors every year, Yousmarg has remained quieter, despite its natural beauty.
Rather also underscored the government’s focus on improving healthcare in the region. The newly inaugurated Nagbal PHC offers ECG, dental, gynecology, separate male and female wards, and a minor operation theatre. The facility is expected to serve the residents of Nagbal and surrounding villages, reducing the need for travel to Srinagar or Charar-i-Sharief for medical services.
While the building itself cost ₹1.53 crore, an additional ₹35 lakh has been earmarked for landscaping, boundary walls, and road access.
“We have sanctioned PHC buildings across the constituency, from Kanir and Tilsara to Nowpora and Bonen, and we will continue to prioritize health and education alongside infrastructure,” Rather assured.
He also promised that pending development projects — including the macadamization (paving) of main and inner roads in Charar-i-Sharief — will be completed soon.
During the visit, local residents and public delegations met the Speaker to raise their demands and grievances. Rather assured them that genuine concerns would be addressed through the concerned authorities.
Top officials, including Budgam ADC Mehraj-ud-Din Shah, CEO Yousmarg Development Authority Bilal Khurshid, and CMO Budgam Dr. Gulzar, were present at the event, reflecting the government’s multi-sector push for development.
As Yousmarg prepares for a tourism makeover, many locals are hopeful that this long-awaited attention will bring jobs, infrastructure, and a brighter future to the region.
