📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Vinayaraj
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Illegal Construction Threatens Pahalgam’s Green Zones Despite High Court Ban
✍️ India Today
🗓 29 Oct 2026, 06:36 AM
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Illegal building activity is expanding in Pahalgam’s protected green zones, violating a High Court ban aimed at preserving the area’s ecological balance.
Illegal construction has begun to spread across Pahalgam’s designated green zones, directly contravening a ban imposed by the High Court to safeguard the region’s fragile ecosystem. The court’s directive, issued last year, prohibited any new building activity within the protected area to prevent deforestation and soil erosion.
Local authorities have reported several unauthorized structures, ranging from small huts to larger commercial setups, appearing in the hills surrounding the tourist town. Environmental groups have warned that these developments could accelerate the loss of vegetation and disrupt wildlife habitats.
The Jammu and Kashmir state government has pledged to enforce the court’s order and has called for a swift removal of the illegal structures. Officials also indicated that penalties, including fines and possible demolition, would be pursued against those responsible.
Residents and visitors to Pahalgam have expressed concern over the potential long‑term damage to the area’s natural beauty, which is a major draw for tourism. The government’s response will be closely monitored as the situation develops.
Local authorities have reported several unauthorized structures, ranging from small huts to larger commercial setups, appearing in the hills surrounding the tourist town. Environmental groups have warned that these developments could accelerate the loss of vegetation and disrupt wildlife habitats.
The Jammu and Kashmir state government has pledged to enforce the court’s order and has called for a swift removal of the illegal structures. Officials also indicated that penalties, including fines and possible demolition, would be pursued against those responsible.
Residents and visitors to Pahalgam have expressed concern over the potential long‑term damage to the area’s natural beauty, which is a major draw for tourism. The government’s response will be closely monitored as the situation develops.