Ganderbal, April 13, KNT: Authorities in Sonamarg halted construction activity in the Sarbal area after reports emerged that concrete work was being carried out despite an existing ban in the eco-sensitive zone.
The action was taken by the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) after it received information that construction, including fencing using concrete near the Nallah Sindh, was underway within its jurisdiction in violation of environmental restrictions.
The development assumes significance as construction activities in Sonamarg have remained under a complete ban since 2017, following orders issued by the Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh High Court. The Sarbal and Thajwas areas have additionally been designated as eco-sensitive zones, where strict environmental safeguards are meant to be enforced.
According to reliable sources, work involving concrete structures had been ongoing in the Sarbal locality despite the restrictions. The use of concrete, particularly near water bodies such as the Nallah Sindh, is prohibited under the eco-sensitive classification aimed at preserving the fragile ecology of the region.
Following the reports, the SDA intervened and immediately ordered a halt to the ongoing work. Individuals involved in the activity were directed to cease operations and were warned that any violation of the law would invite legal action.
The incident has raised concerns over enforcement gaps in protected zones, where regulatory oversight is critical to maintaining ecological balance. Authorities have not disclosed whether any penalties have been imposed so far.
Sonamarg, a key tourist destination in central Kashmir, has witnessed sustained regulatory attention due to its environmental vulnerability. The High Court’s 2017 directive continues to govern development activities in the region, with eco-sensitive zoning further tightening permissible interventions. [KNT]
