SRINAGAR, July 14: In a major step aimed at safeguarding Kashmir’s fragile forest ecosystem and promoting sustainable tourism, the Forest Department has imposed a complete ban on camping, tent pitching, off-road driving, bonfires and other activities that could damage forest areas at four popular tourist destinations—Doodhpathri, Yousmarg, Tosamaidan and Hajjin-Brenwar.
According to an official order, the directions have been issued by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Pir Panjal Forest Division, Budgam, and have come into effect immediately. The order has been forwarded to the Doodganga, Sukhnag and Raithan Forest Ranges for strict implementation as part of a comprehensive initiative to develop these eco-tourism destinations into zero-waste zones while ensuring long-term conservation of biodiversity and natural resources.
Under the new guidelines, the Forest Department will establish anti-polythene check points on roads leading to these tourist destinations to prevent the entry, sale, storage and use of banned plastic and polythene materials. Officials have also been directed to strictly enforce the Jammu and Kashmir Non-Biodegradable Material (Management, Handling and Disposal) Act, 2007, along with the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, against violators.
To promote environmental awareness, the department has instructed field officers to educate tourists about proper waste segregation, responsible garbage disposal and the use of eco-friendly alternatives such as cloth bags instead of single-use plastics. Range Officers have also been asked to identify suitable locations for installing eco-friendly dustbins in consultation with local stakeholders and municipal authorities to facilitate scientific collection and disposal of waste at least twice every week.
As part of the conservation drive, weekly cleanliness campaigns will be organised every Wednesday with the participation of Forest Department officials, Forest Protection Force personnel, municipal bodies, tourism stakeholders, local residents and volunteers. Informative signboards highlighting the ban on littering, plastic use, camping, off-roading and lighting of fires will also be installed at key locations across the tourist destinations.
The Forest Department has made it clear that pitching tents, camping, off-road driving, lighting bonfires and any activity likely to disturb or damage the forest ecosystem within reserved forest areas are strictly prohibited. It warned that any violation of the directions will invite strict legal action under the relevant provisions of law.
Officials said the initiative is aimed at preserving the ecological balance of some of Kashmir’s most visited tourist destinations while encouraging responsible, eco-friendly and environmentally sustainable tourism across the region. (KNC)
