Srinagar: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has raised alarm over what it says is ongoing illegal construction and unauthorized earthwork in Aru, Pahalgam, taking place despite strict environmental protections and court orders.
In a statement to Ziraat Times, EPG Convenor Faiz Ahmad Bakshi said the work being carried out violates the directives of the Jammu & Kashmir High Court as well as Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) rules and the Environment (Protection) Act. He said that planning and land-use regulations are being openly flouted.
Aru Valley — a high-altitude ecosystem known for its fragile biodiversity, hydrology and cultural significance — is classified as an ecologically sensitive area where any construction or terrain alteration requires multiple statutory approvals and transparent environmental scrutiny. According to EPG, the ongoing activity includes unapproved foundations, slope cutting, earth-filling and damage to natural vegetation, threatening wildlife movement and natural water channels. The group warned that the disturbances could also undermine the region’s eco-tourism economy.
EPG has urged the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Jammu & Kashmir Pollution Control Board, and the Department of Forest, Ecology & Environment to halt all activity immediately and conduct a time-bound joint inspection. The group also demanded accountability from officials who allowed the violations to occur.
The organisation has called for restoration of the affected landscape, an independent inquiry into the matter, and strict enforcement of the High Court’s orders.
“Protecting Aru Valley is essential to safeguarding Jammu & Kashmir’s environmental heritage,” Bakshi said.
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