Srinagar: The Ecotourism Association of Kashmir has urged Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to give greater priority to protecting Kashmir’s fragile environment and ecologically sensitive tourist destinations.

During a meeting with the Lieutenant Governor, the association highlighted the need to strengthen environmental safeguards, particularly in hill stations and other sensitive areas that have already been declared No-Polythene Zones.

The association stressed that these provisions should be implemented strictly and effectively to protect the region’s fragile ecosystem.

Tourist pressure poses environmental challenges

The association said Kashmir’s tourism sector is closely linked to its natural beauty and ecological wealth. However, increasing tourist pressure, plastic pollution, unplanned development and climate change are posing serious challenges to the region’s environment.

It called for stronger coordination among the government, tourism stakeholders and local communities to protect Kashmir’s mountains, forests, water bodies and ecologically sensitive landscapes.

The association said environmental protection should remain central to tourism planning and development in the region.

Call for responsible and sustainable tourism

The association emphasised that Kashmir’s environment is the foundation of its tourism economy and that protecting natural resources is essential for the long-term sustainability of the sector.

It reiterated its commitment to promoting responsible tourism, environmental awareness and sustainable tourism practices across Jammu and Kashmir.

The association also stressed that protecting Kashmir’s environment is not only an ecological responsibility but is crucial for safeguarding the livelihoods of people dependent on tourism.