Snow mobile operations in Sonamarg confined to two designated locations

Decision taken as part of broader efforts to protect the ecological balance of Sonamarg, said Sonamarg Development Authority.

STC NEWS DESK
SRINAGAR, JANUARY 31 (STC): The Sonamarg Development Authority has imposed temporary restrictions on the operation of snow mobile bikes, confining their use to two designated locations.
According to an official circular issued by the Authority today, snow mobile bikes will, for the time being, be allowed to operate only near the Eco Environment Park at Shutkadi and Thajiwas Gate. “The decision has been taken as part of broader efforts to protect the ecological balance of Sonamarg, which witnesses heavy tourist footfall during the winter season,” reads the circular.
The circular further states that a committee has been constituted to identify and recommend a permanent, fully designated area for snow mobile bike operations in Sonamarg. “Once the committee submits its report, suitable permanent locations will be allotted to snow mobile bike owners. Until then, operations will remain restricted to the two specified sites,” reads the circular.
Besides, the Authority has also imposed a cap, allowing only 20 snow mobile bikes per day at each of the designated locations. It has warned that any violation of these directions will attract legal action, including seizure of the vehicles involved.
Snow mobile bikers operating near Thajiwas Gate have been warned of strict legal consequences if they attempt to enter the meadow area, which remains environmentally sensitive and restricted.
Meanwhile, the authority has established a dedicated enforcement wing, to monitor snow mobile bike operations and authorised to take action against any violations outside the permitted zones.

(Straight Talk Communications)