SRINAGAR: The Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) has imposed a strict ‘one person, one trade’ policy at the famous tourist resort, banning multiple trade licenses and prohibiting ponywallas from engaging hired labour, officials said on Tuesday.
The decision, aimed at decongesting the hill station and checking environmental degradation, comes amid rising violations of the Tourist Trade Act, including service providers crowding entry points, Gondola sites and parking lots beyond the area’s carrying capacity, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Tariq Hussain said.
“The policy of ‘one person one trade’ is imperative to provide ample opportunities to the unemployed and to every deserving service provider,” CEO Hussain said.
He added that ponywallas plying animals beyond registered numbers through unidentified hired labourers had a negative impact on the local environment.
Under the new code of ethics, each registered person will be allowed only one pony, with entry restricted to designated points. Grazing has been strictly prohibited in the Gulmarg bowl, Golf Course and Potato Farm, the CEO warned, adding that violators would face immediate seizure and auction of their cattle.
The GDA has also restricted vehicle movement, mandating that light motor vehicles park in designated market lots while heavy vehicles remain at the children’s park. Tourist vehicles for night stays will be allowed only after booking verification.
E-vehicles and e-rickshaws have been encouraged on designated routes, while All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) owners have been capped at 40 vehicles per day. Tourists have been barred from driving them. Registered guides and photographers must charge approved rates, the official said.
“Any person with multiple trade licenses shall be barred from carrying any business immediately,” CEO GDA said, adding that association heads would be personally responsible for enforcing the orders. Violations will be dealt with strictly on the spot by enforcement agencies. (KNS)
