Srinagar Aug 9: The Central government has expressed concerns about the deteriorating environmental conditions in Jammu and Kashmir, urging the local administration to develop a new tourism master plan with a strong focus on conservation.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has asked the J&K government to implement a zonal master plan alongside a comprehensive tourism master plan.
“Furthermore, the establishment of such facilities beyond this one-kilometer boundary will only be permitted in predefined and designated areas for eco-tourism, as outlined in the Tourism Master Plan. These new tourism activities must also adhere to guidelines set forth by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, as well as the eco-tourism guidelines issued by the National Tiger Conservation Authority, which are subject to periodic amendments,” the official shared Centre’s directives to J&K government.
Previously, the Central government proposed a draft plan to designate 137.75 square kilometers surrounding the Dachigam National Park, Thajiwas (Baltal), and Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuaries as eco-sensitive zones. These areas are critical habitats for a variety of diverse and endemic species, and the eco-sensitive designation aims to support biodiversity by promoting gene flow across the region.
The draft plan also calls for an immediate ban on all new and existing mining, stone quarrying, and crushing activities within these zones, with exceptions made for essential domestic needs. Additionally, it prohibits the establishment of new industries and the expansion of existing polluting industries within the eco-sensitive zones.
