SRINAGAR: The High Court has granted the Army’s application seeking orders for the rejuvenation and repairs of its structures in the Gulmarg tourist resort, the Excelsior reported.
The court directed the Building Operation Controlling Authority (BOCA) and Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) to promptly issue relevant orders in this regard.
The Ministry of Defence moved the application, seeking approval to initiate existing and new construction for operational training purposes, including accommodation for both domestic and foreign officers and troops, along with allied infrastructure at Gulmarg in phases.
A division bench of Chief Justice N Kotiswar Singh and Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal passed the orders while disposing of an application filed on behalf of the Ministry of Defence, seeking permission to commence existing and fresh construction relating to operational, training of its forces including providing accommodation for own and foreign officers and troops along with the allied infrastructure at Gulmarg in phases.
Earlier last week, the high court passed similar orders to BOCA of Sonamarg Development Authority regarding the repairs and new constructions in the gold meadow.
Highlighting Gulmarg’s significance as a crucial location for Indian Army operations, particularly its hosting of the unique High-Altitude Warfare School (HAWS), the court stressed that defense and security matters are paramount. It remitted the issue to BOCA Gulmarg for necessary permissions.
The court urged the BOCA and Gulmarg Development Authority to facilitate the Indian Army’s repairs and fresh construction by applicable norms.
Representing the Army, the Assistant Solicitor General of India assured the court that they had approached the BOCA authorities at Gulmarg. The court ordered the authorities to consider the matter promptly, ensuring national security considerations, preferably within one month from the date of the order.
