Gulmarg, April 10 (KNS): The recent decision by the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) to suspend snowmobile services in Kongdori and surrounding areas has led to resentment among local operators.
The abrupt order, which is set to halt snowmobile activities immediately, has sparked outrage, with many owners claiming that the move threatens their main source of income during the crucial winter tourism season.
The GDA’s suspension order cites reasons such as reduced snow levels, safety risks, and environmental concerns, as justification for halting operations.
However, snowmobile operators argue that they were not consulted before the decision was made and are now facing financial difficulties without any transitional support. One local operator expressed, “This is a direct attack on our livelihood.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp ChannelWe rely on these earnings throughout the year. The government could have regulated us instead of shutting us down overnight.”
The District Development Council (DDC) Adv Mir Ishafaq has called on the authorities to reconsider their stance. In a social media post , the DDC emphasized the importance of both environmental protection and the livelihoods of the people who depend on tourism for their income. “While environmental concerns are important, we must ensure that livelihoods are not ignored. A more gradual approach or alternative employment solutions should be considered,” the post read.
The timing of the ban has raised questions, as it coincides with the peak of the tourist season.(KNS)