Reviving Tradition: The Eco-Friendly Comeback of Jammu's Horse-Driven Tongas

In the border areas of Jammu's R S Pura, traditional horse-driven tongas are experiencing a revival. This resurgence follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal for fuel conservation, drawing both locals and tourists to this eco-friendly mode of transport.

Historically, tongas ferried passengers between Jammu and Sialkot before Independence and continued to survive in parts of R S Pura for over seven decades. With the recent push for fuel-saving measures, these tongas attract those traveling short distances near the International Border.

Local operator Teja Singh stated, "We have been running tongas here for decades." The trend has gained momentum, with more people prioritizing fuel alternatives. Tourists find tonga rides both an environmental choice and a cultural connection, embracing these rides as a window into the region's heritage.

(With inputs from agencies.)