The construction of the rock climbing wall is expected to cost Rs.95 lakh.

Along with the wall, a training centre is also being built close to the Nowgam Railway Station. The construction is likely to be completed by March 2012.

Residents believe it will be a major tourist attraction in the Kashmir Valley.

“I think it is a very good initiative to construct a wall. This is being done for the fi rst time in Kashmir. It will be beneficial for tourists in the Kashmir Valley,” said Sajad Ahmad, a resident.

Rock climbing expert Sandeep said it would encourage young Kashmiris to take up adventure sports.

“I would like to thank the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department for taking this initiative, through which the youth who cannot directly climb mountains, can take part in this activity.We can attract many tourists, and this, will boost tourism in the valley,” said Sandeep.

Tourism acts as an economic lifeline for the state and has flourished as much because of the breath taking beauty of the land, as also because of the warmth and hospitality of the Kashmiri people.