Kashmir’s Gurez Valley Now Imposes ₹5,000 Fine On Tourists For Littering Single-Use Plastic

Gurez is a beautiful, breathtaking valley located in the Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir. Located just 123 km north of Srinagar, it is celebrated for its pristine landscapes. And now, in a bid to preserve its ecology, the authorities have imposed a complete ban on single-use plastic. Tourists found littering the valley can face strict action.

Gurez Valley Bans Single-Use Plastic

It normally takes a six-to seven-hour drive from Srinagar to reach the beautiful Gurez Valley in Kashmir. The place is home to several remote villages. It attracts tourists for its scenic landscapes and camping sites. According to the Kashmir Convener, the civil administration has now decided to completely ban single-use polythene in the valley.

The decision was recently taken during a meeting where officials expressed disappointment that plastic waste accumulation has turned the tourist destination into a garbage dump. Littering often goes unchecked, which undoubtedly harms the ecology of the place. This is why tourists found littering can now face heavy penalties, including a ₹5,000 fine.

Also Read: Uri In Jammu & Kashmir Set For Major Tourism Upgrade; Here’s What’s Planned For Tourists

Tourists & Shopkeepers Can Face Heavy Penalties

Any tourist or local found carrying or throwing plastic will be fined ₹1,000 on the spot. According to the Kashmir Convener, tourists found tossing plastic from vehicles, which is sadly a common occurrence, will have their vehicle numbers noted. A penalty of ₹5,000 will then be sent to their residential addresses.

Reportedly, shopkeepers have also been put on notice. They will be fined ₹5,000 for allowing polythene or plastic waste inside or outside their establishments. Check posts will also be set up at Tragbal and Pethkoot, the two main entry points to Gurez. Police personnel will be deployed there to inspect vehicles and confiscate prohibited plastic items to prevent polythene from entering the valley. The Indian Army has also offered assistance at the Tragbal check post.

Also Read: Jammu & Kashmir Plans To Add 200 Smart E-Buses To Fleet; To Offer Free Travel For Women

We think this is a great decision to keep the Gurez Valley neat and clean.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Aadil Mehraj