“SDA faces criticism after posting geo-tagged photos of the work”
By: Hadi Hidayat/The-Newscast
Sonamarg, Sept-19: The ongoing macadamisation of the Gad Khul–Sonamarg road has come under sharp criticism from locals and environmentalists, who allege that the activity is in direct violation of the Jammu & Kashmir High Court’s directions to safeguard the fragile ecology of Sonamarg.
Residents said the work contradicts the conservation measures mandated by the court and undermines long-standing efforts to protect the meadow’s eco-sensitive zones. This is nothing short of contempt of court. The authorities are openly disregarding judicial orders,” one local alleged.
In PIL 404/2011 (Court on its own Motion v/s State and Others), the High Court on September 11-2017: issued comprehensive orders to regulate activities in Sonamarg, which included:
A ban on vehicular movement towards Thajiwas Glacier, with visitors directed to use pony tracks and nature trails instead.
Strict regulation of traffic along the Srinagar–Leh highway stretch passing through Sonamarg
Finalisation of the Sonamarg Master Plan 2025–2045 to ensure sustainable development and ecological preservation.
Removal of illegal constructions and encroachments, and enforcement of Solid Waste Management Bye-Laws.
Experts including environmental scientist Prof. Shakil Romshoo & Advocate Nadeem Qadri have previously highlighted the positive impact of these measures, noting a reduction in black carbon concentration near the glacier following the vehicular ban.
Talking to This Reporter, Advocate Nadeem Qadri stressed that “Gad Khul is a crucial source of fresh water to the River Sindh. Without macadamisation, vehicular movement on this route was very limited. But once the road is fully blacktopped, traffic volumes will rise sharply, and that is where the ecology will face the greatest impact.
What has further fueled criticism is the fact that the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) itself recently posted geo-tagged photographs of the macadamisation work on social media. Observers termed this “ironic and unfortunate,” saying the very body tasked with enforcing environmental safeguards is showcasing activities that appear to defy the court’s directives.
Local residents, activists, and civil society groups have urged the administration and judiciary to take immediate cognizance of the issue. They demanded that the macadamisation be stopped without delay and accountability fixed on those authorising the work.
“If violations of this nature continue unchecked, Sonamarg’s delicate ecosystem including the Thajiwas Glacier, Sonamarg Wildlife Sanctuary, and the River Sindh, will face irreversible damage, and warned an activist.