Pahalgam Declared Polythene-Free Zone; ₹2000 Fine for Violators
Arif Rashid
Pahalgam, Feb 18: In a major step toward environmental protection and sustainable tourism, the Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) has imposed a complete ban on the use and carrying of polythene and other plastic items across all areas falling under its jurisdiction.
According to an official order issued by the Government of Jammu & Kashmir, the prohibition applies to tourist spots, parks, forest areas, streams, riverbanks, markets, residential localities, religious places, and yatra routes within Pahalgam. The directive notes that widespread littering of plastic waste such as bottles, chip packets, bags, plastic crockery, and canned drink containers has been posing serious environmental hazards and threatening both human and animal life.
The order states that the fragile ecosystem of the hill resort requires urgent protection and emphasizes the need to promote eco-friendly tourism practices. All identified locations have been declared polythene-free zones with immediate effect.
Authorities have warned that anyone found littering or dumping banned plastic or non-biodegradable material will be fined ₹2000. In addition, repeated violations may lead to cancellation of registration certificates issued by the J&K Tourism Department.
The directive, signed by Chief Executive Officer Mir Nasrool Hilal Jeri, has been circulated to district officials, forest and tourism authorities, municipal bodies, and enforcement staff for strict implementation.
Locals, environmental activists, and tourism stakeholders have widely appreciated the initiative, praising the CEO for taking a timely and decisive step to safeguard Pahalgam’s fragile ecology. Many have termed the move visionary, stating that such proactive measures are essential to preserve the region’s natural beauty for future generations while promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.
Officials said the move aims to preserve Pahalgam’s natural beauty and ensure responsible tourism, urging visitors, shopkeepers, and residents to cooperate fully with the new regulations.
