“These two places are attracting hundreds of local picnickers from various areas these days. Government should declare these as protected monuments. These sites date back to hundreds of years. If Government pays little attention and gives these a proper projection they can attract hundreds of tourists every year,” locals said.
The tunnel-like long caves, and giant rock-sculptures, are of historical, archaeological and artistic interests which lie “unprotected” and “unpreserved” in Kalarros area due to lackadaisical approach of the concerned authorities, locals said.
KALAROOS TUNNEL
It is believed that Kalaroos tunnel leads to Russia. This tunnel is between Lashtyal and Madhmadu villages of Kalaroos area. The first two and a half kilometers of the tunnel can be covered on foot.
SATBARAN TUNNEL There is a giant structure- monumental site--- called Satbaran (7 doors of carved stones) which depict great architecture of carving of stones in old times. It is also located in between the Madhmudu and Lashtyal villages
OFFICIALS SPEAK
Lolab –Bungus Drangyari Development Authority (LBDDA) has taken up the matter with Department of Archeology and Museums to preserve and declare these sites as a protected place.
Talking to Greater Kashmir the Chief Executive Officer of LBDDA Muhammad Yasin Lone said, “We have written to Directorate of Archeology and Museums to identify and declare these sites as protected monuments and heritage sites.”
“Tourists who come here are interested to know how old these sites area and who had built them. So the research and restoration will increase cultural tourism in the district. We have written to other departments also to provide basic civic amenities like road connectivity, foot paths, and toilet facilities at these sites for the convenience of the visitors,” Lone added.