Ganderbal, Dec 29: Authorities in Gund area of Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district have intensified their efforts to ensure road safety and protect tourists amid harsh winter conditions.
Gund Police, in collaboration with Tehsildar Gund, has set up a checkpoint at Gund to verify that all vehicles traveling toward Sonamarg are equipped with mandatory anti-skid snow chains. Vehicles without these essential safety measures are prohibited from proceeding beyond the checkpoint.
SHO Gund, Lateef Ali, has also initiated a strict crackdown on drivers found overcharging tourists. Several vehicles have been seized on the spot for violations. Speaking on the matter, SHO Gund said: “Only vehicles equipped with anti-skid chains or 4×4 vehicles will be allowed to proceed to Sonamarg. Strict action will be taken against offenders to protect tourists and ensure their safety.”
Tehsildar Gund, Manzoor Ahmad, visited the Gagangeer area to review the road conditions and reiterated the importance of compliance. “Tourists facing overcharging will see action against violators. Only vehicles meeting safety requirements will be permitted to travel toward Sonamarg,” he said.
In light of the prevailing winter weather, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has issued an advisory with key measures: Mandatory Use of Anti-Skid Chains: No vehicle will be allowed beyond Gund without anti-skid chains. Thorough vehicle checks are being conducted at designated checkpoints, supervised by the SDM Kangan and SDPO Kangan.
Local vendors, under the supervision of the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) and SDM Kangan, must ensure anti-skid chains are available at reasonable prices. The Traffic Police and BRO (Project BEACON) are tasked with maintaining smooth vehicular movement and preventing blockades on the National Highway. To further streamline services during the winter, the Sub-divisional administration Kangan has established a control room to assist the general public. Designated officials will handle public queries, grievances and provide necessary information.
