BARAMULLA: Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) launched a comprehensive anti-polythene and anti-pollution drive on Saturday, aimed at enhancing environmental awareness and cleanliness in Tangmarg and Gulmarg.

The day-long campaign saw active participation from various departments, including the Executive Officer of the Municipality Tangmarg/Gulmarg, SHO Gulmarg/Tangmarg, officials from GDA, Inspector Motor Vehicle Department, Forest Protection Force focusing on both awareness and action.

The drive commenced in Tangmarg, where Chief Executive Officer of GDA, Waseem Raja led a road awareness of drivers, passengers, and tourists. He emphasized the importance of maintaining Gulmarg's pristine environment, noting the detrimental effects of polythene in such an eco-fragile zone.

He urged local visitors and tourists to refrain from using polythene in Gulmarg. The inspection team conducted thorough checks on vehicles, ensuring the validity of pollution certificates and educating tourists about the ban and punishment for carrying polythene into Gulmarg.

During the drive, the team checked hundreds of vehicles and imposed fines amounting to Rs 85,000 for various offences and violations. Five vehicles with expired fitness certificates, producing excessive smoke, were seized by Tangmarg Police under Section 129.

The drive extended to Gulmarg, where GDA, in collaboration with the Tangmarg/Gulmarg Municipal Committee, launched a cleanliness drive at the Children's Park. Volunteers focused on cleaning the park, collecting polythene and plastic waste scattered in the area.

Throughout the drive, both CEO Waseem Raja and Volunteers emphasized the importance of utilizing the numerous dustbins installed around Gulmarg, encouraging visitors and tourists to keep the area clean. Raja stated that anyone found using polythene or disposing-off plastic waste irresponsibly in Gulmarg would face strict penalties as per the law.

The GDA remains committed to preserving the natural beauty of Gulmarg and ensuring a clean and sustainable environment for future generations. This initiative marks a significant step towards fostering community participation and environmental responsibility.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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