J&K set to embrace Disneyland-inspired development, says IAS officer Rajesh Prasad

Following the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, the region has witnessed substantial progress across various sectors, including tourism, energy, and infrastructure.

Rajesh Prasad Hiriyadka, originally hailing from Udupi is the Principal Secretary of the Department of Energy and Urban Development in the Government of Jammu and Kashmir. He revealed ambitious plans to model Srinagar on Disneyland in an exclusive interview with Udayavani.

Addressing the changes post Article 370 and 35A revocation, Rajesh Prasad emphasized the formation of two Union Territories, Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh. The exisiting laws in the country are now being implemented in Kashmir.

Regarding the security situation, he highlighted a transformative shift from earlier years, witnessing a decline in terrorism, protests, and riots. The region has embraced peace and development, with a significant decrease in anti-national activities. Schools and colleges are operational, and law and order are under control.

The interview touched upon areas experiencing notable changes, such as the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP) allocating 58 thousand crores for infrastructure, highways, power projects, railways, and housing. Rajesh Prasad emphasized the completion of new railway lines and the significant reduction in travel time between Jammu and Srinagar.

Prasad also shed light on the acceleration of the country’s largest hydro project after 2020, with partnerships between the state government and the National Hydro Electric Power Corporation. The focus on online services, the completion of the constituency redistribution process, and preparations for upcoming elections were discussed.

Comparing Kashmir to Switzerland, Rajesh Prasad highlighted the region’s vast natural beauty, aiming to boost tourism development. “Switzerland is just a ‘mini Kashmir,” he added.

Notably, outsiders are now allowed to invest in industry and tourism, with a Disneyland-type tourism project in progress in Srinagar. This project, spanning 150 acres with a budget of Rs 2 thousand crores, is expected to usher in a new era of tourism in the state.