EPG opposes Food Expo at SP College ground in Srinagar

Ziraat Times News Desk

SRINAGAR — The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has formally raised a strong objection against the proposed use of the SP College ground for the upcoming 2nd Edition of the Kashmir Food Expo, scheduled for May 5th–7th, 2026.

In a letter addressed to the Principal of SP College, Prof. (Dr.) Haris Izhar Tantray, EPG Convenor Faiz Ahmad Bakshi expressed serious concerns regarding the ecological degradation of one of the city’s few remaining urban green spaces.

Core Environmental Concerns

The think tank highlighted that the SP College ground plays a critical role in Srinagar’s environmental stability. According to the EPG, the ground is vital for:

Soil preservation and preventing erosion.

Groundwater recharge within the urban landscape.

Microclimate regulation, helping to manage local temperatures.

The group argued that commercial exhibitions involve the movement of heavy machinery and the installation of temporary infrastructure, which leads to permanent soil compaction and the destruction of essential grass cover.

“At a time when urban green areas are shrinking, it is imperative to preserve and protect such spaces from avoidable environmental stress,” the statement read.

Impact on Students and Community

Beyond the ecological footprint, the EPG emphasized that the ground is a primary recreational and sports facility. The group contends that allowing Olampia Exhibition Pvt. Ltd. to host a commercial event on the premises deprives students and local children of a space dedicated to physical activity and well-being.

A Recurring Dispute

This is not the first time the venue has been a point of contention. A similar event was proposed last year, but was ultimately postponed following “serious reservations” raised by the EPG. The group maintains that the core issues regarding the misuse of academic grounds for commercial purposes remain “valid and unresolved”.

The EPG has urged the college administration and local authorities to deny permission for the Expo, calling for a “responsible and environmentally conscious decision” to safeguard the community asset for its intended academic and recreational purposes.