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31 Mar 2026

Unregulated tourism activity puts Numblan scenic spot at risk

Javaid Khan Pulwama, Mar 30: Tucked away just 28 kilometers from the Pulwama district headquarters lies Numblan, a hidden gem recently brought into the spotlight after being added to the official tourist map of Jammu and Kashmir. For years, Numblan remained a serene summer retreat for locals of Sangerwani, who would bring their livestock here to graze during the warmer months. Surrounded on all sides by dense forests, the heart of Numblan is marked by an open, lush meadow where mud-built ‘kothe’ (temporary summer huts) still stand, a living symbol of traditional pastoral life. But in the past two months, everything has changed. As soon as Numblan gained recognition on the tourism map, the influx of visitors began. With no formal road extending beyond Nallah Romshi, tourists now drive up to that point, park their vehicles, and hike the rest of the way. Despite the lack of parking facilities and infrastructure, the number of visitors continues to grow each week. While this rise in footfall has brought economic opportunities to local shopkeepers, the ecological

and cultural cost is becoming increasingly visible. "Before tourists arrived, we used to live peacefully in Numblan, looking after our cattle in complete silence. Evenings were calm, and the breeze carried nothing but the sound of nature," recalls Bashir Ahmad, a resident of Sangerwani. "Now, the peace is disturbed. There is noise, trash, and we feel our space is being invaded." "Now even we women hesitate to step outside our huts," says Quraisha Bano, a resident. "Earlier, we would roam freely in the forests, collect firewood, and live with comfort and privacy. But ever since tourists started crowding this place, we feel restricted. Being women, we are conscious and uncomfortable stepping out. Our sense of privacy is gone." Many locals express concern over how unregulated tourism is harming both the environment and the cultural fabric of Numblan. Local social worker Syed Shakir Maqbool acknowledged that tourism has brought benefits. "Yes, tourists have come. Local shopkeepers are earning better now. Unemployment is decreasing, and that is a good sign," he said. "But the government and Tourism Department must

take steps. We need proper dustbins, sanitation, and strict protection of the road. It should not be extended beyond Nallah Romshi. Otherwise, we are inviting irreversible damage." Shakir said he has already contacted some NGOs to provide dustbins and support environmental protection efforts in the area. Local teacher Zulkarnain Khan echoed the need for awareness and responsibility. "While tourism helps local businesses, it is also our duty to protect this land. The locals of Sangerwani must ensure that Numblan stays clean. A campaign has already begun, asking every visitor to respect this place. Do not throw plastic, do not spoil the beauty." As Numblan steps into the public eye, it stands at a delicate crossroads, between development and degradation, between opportunity and responsibility. If tourism continues without regulation, the very beauty that drew people here may be lost to neglect and misuse, along with the dignity and comfort of the people who call it home. Numblan does not need just tourists. It needs responsible visitors, clear policies, and a sustained commitment to preservation.