SDA aims for garbage-free Sonamarg with collaborative efforts

Ganderbal, April 22: Chief Executive Officer, Farooq Ahmad Baba of the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) declared ambitious plans to transform Sonamarg into a garbage-free zone during a Mega Rally organized by “Go Green Sonamarg” on World Earth Day.
The rally aimed to raise awareness about environmental conservation and the detrimental effects of pollution on the picturesque tourist resort in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district.
‘Go Green Sonamarg’, in collaboration with the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) and various key stakeholders including CEO Farooq Ahmad Baba, representatives from the Tourism Department, Sonamarg Police led by SHO Turk Zahoor, Tourist Police, Traffic Police represented by SO Farooq Ahmad, Wildlife Department, Forest Protection Force with Assistant Director Mohd Yousuf Magray, Forest Department, Beopar Mandal Sonamarg represented by Shabir Ahmad, Coordinator Go Green Sonamarg Riyaz Ahmad, local stakeholders, and hoteliers, initiated a significant cleanliness drive from Golden Glory Eco Park to the Main Market Sonamarg. Shopkeepers were urged not to dispose of garbage on roads or footpaths.
CEO Baba emphasized the collective responsibility of both the authorities and local stakeholders in ensuring a clean and sustainable environment for Sonamarg.
The rally highlighted the alarming impact of mass tourism on eco-sensitive destinations like Sonamarg, where pollution threatens both the environment and public health. Stakeholders engaged in an interaction session to address concerns about solid waste disposal amidst the rising influx of tourists.
With concerted efforts from all stakeholders, Sonamarg aspires to emerge as a shining example of environmental preservation, safeguarding its natural beauty for generations to come.