SRINAGAR: In a major step aimed at protecting Kashmir’s fragile forest ecosystem and promoting sustainable tourism, the Forest Department has imposed an immediate ban on camping, tent pitching, off-road driving, bonfires and other activities that could damage forest areas at four prominent tourist destinations—Doodhpathri, Yousmarg, Tosamaidan and Hajjin-Brenwar.
According to an official order, the restrictions have been issued by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Pir Panjal Forest Division, Budgam, and have come into immediate effect. The order has been circulated to the Doodganga, Sukhnag and Raithan Forest Ranges for strict enforcement as part of a broader initiative to transform these eco-tourism destinations into zero-waste zones while ensuring the long-term conservation of biodiversity and natural resources.
As part of the directions, anti-polythene check points will be established on approach roads to the tourist destinations to prevent the entry, sale, storage and use of prohibited plastic and polythene items. Forest officials have also been instructed to strictly enforce the Jammu and Kashmir Non-Biodegradable Material (Management, Handling and Disposal) Act, 2007, and the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, against violators.
The department has directed field officers to educate visitors on waste segregation, responsible disposal of garbage and the use of environmentally friendly alternatives, including 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 ensure scientific waste collection and disposal at least twice a week.
To strengthen conservation efforts, weekly cleanliness drives will be conducted 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 prohibition on littering, plastic use, camping, off-road driving and lighting bonfires will also be installed at key locations.
The Forest Department has clarified that camping, tent pitching, 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 violations would attract legal action under the relevant provisions of law.
Officials said the measures are intended to preserve the ecological integrity of some of Kashmir’s most visited tourist destinations while promoting responsible and environmentally sustainable tourism.
