President of the Ecotourism Association of Kashmir, Sameer Baktoo, has urged Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to accord sustained attention to Kashmir’s growing environmental challenges, particularly climate change, protection of fragile ecosystems and conservation of its iconic hill stations.
During a meeting, Baktoo said Kashmir’s natural environment was not merely a tourism attraction but the foundation of its tourism economy and the livelihoods of thousands of people. He stressed that protecting mountains, forests, water bodies and fragile landscapes must remain a long-term priority.
A key concern raised during the meeting was the effective implementation of No-Polythene Zone provisions in hill stations and other environmentally sensitive destinations. Baktoo called for strict enforcement, regular monitoring and effective measures to prevent violations in areas already notified as No-Polythene Zones.
The discussion also focused on strengthening environmental safeguards, promoting responsible tourism, regulating activities in ecologically sensitive areas and creating greater awareness among tourists, tourism stakeholders and local communities.
Baktoo said increasing tourism pressure, plastic pollution, unplanned development and the growing impact of climate change were placing additional stress on Kashmir’s fragile ecological balance.
He called for a coordinated approach under the Lieutenant Governor’s leadership to ensure that tourism development and environmental protection move together.
The association reiterated its commitment to promoting sustainable tourism that protects nature, respects local communities and supports livelihoods.
“The future of Kashmir tourism is inseparable from the future of Kashmir’s environment. If we protect our environment, we protect our tourism, our livelihoods and the future of generations to come,” Baktoo said.
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