SRINAGAR, Feb 18 : In a major step to protect the fragile ecosystem of the famous tourist resort, the Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) has imposed a complete ban on the carrying and use of plastic items, declaring the entire area under its jurisdiction a polythene-free zone with immediate effect.
An order issued by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PDA, Mir Nasrool Ailaheri of which a copy lies with News Agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) cited widespread littering of rivers, forests, and markets as the primary reason for the crackdown.
“The carrying and use of plastic items like plastic bags, chips covers, bottles, plastic crockery, and canned drinks is banned in all tourist spots, parks, streams, forest areas, residential and commercial areas, religious places, and the Amarnath Yatra route,” the order reads.
The administration stated that non-biodegradable waste poses severe environmental hazards and risks to human and animal lives, necessitating immediate action to promote eco-friendly tourism in Pahalgam.
According to the order, anyone found littering or dumping banned plastic items will be fined Rs 2,000.
For continuous violations, the PDA has also mandated stricter action, including the cancellation of the registration certificate issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department. “Any deviation from the orders will be strictly dealt with by authorities as per rules,” the order stated. (KNS)
