TRAL — The scenic Panner Dam, located in the Tral area of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, is quickly becoming a favored tourist destination. Encircled by lush green forests, the dam is not only a picturesque site but also a vital irrigation source for the paddy fields of Panner Jageer, Mandoora, and nearby areas.
Despite its growing popularity, locals said that the dam suffers from a lack of basic amenities due to government neglect.
“A road was recently constructed, but it still requires further government intervention for additional development,” said a local resident.
Residents highlighted several issues: the dam area lacks cleanliness, there is no designated parking, leading to chaotic vehicle parking, and there are no accommodations or other facilities for tourists, resulting in considerable inconvenience.
Locals have repeatedly brought these issues to the attention of higher authorities, but their appeals have gone unanswered.
They believe that if Panner Dam is officially recognized as a tourist destination, it could generate significant employment opportunities for locals and revenue for the government. Enhanced tourism could also help alleviate poverty in the area, where many residents face economic challenges.
The community urges the concerned authorities to address these issues promptly and take immediate steps to develop the area. — (KNO)