Ganderbal, Aug 20: The serene beauty of Sindh Nallah, meandering through Ganderbal district from Sonmarg, has turned into a treacherous attraction for tourists seeking selfies and a refreshing dip. Despite warnings and past tragedies, the allure of capturing the perfect shot or taking a leisurely bath near the riverbanks has resulted in a growing number of fatalities.
Ganderbal district, nestled in the heart of Central Kashmir, is a magnet for both locals and non-local tourists. The banks of the picturesque River Sindh, including spots like Gagangeer, Sonamarg, Wayil, Mamer, and Hung, have become hotspots for visitors looking to snap selfies against the breathtaking backdrop or immerse themselves in the river’s cool waters. However, this seemingly innocent activity has taken a grim turn as many have lost their lives due to missteps while attempting to capture the perfect moment.
Despite authorities placing warning signs along the river, cautioning against photography and bathing due to potential dangers, the enthusiasm for selfies and splashing around remains unchecked. Reports indicate that the lack of awareness among tourists, particularly those visiting Sonamarg, about these restrictions contributes to the ongoing risk-taking behavior.
Residents and witnesses in the region express their concerns, urging for stricter measures to prevent these tragic accidents. They suggest that comprehensive signage be placed at all vulnerable points along the Sindh Nallah, dissuading anyone from venturing too close to the water’s edge. While drowning incidents have been prevalent for years, even fatal accidents from slipping while taking pictures have become a harrowing reality.
Highlighting the urgency of the situation, incidents from the recent past are a stark reminder of the perilous consequences of ignoring safety precautions. In July 2021, a 20-year-old youth lost his life after drowning in Sindh Nallah while attempting to take a bath near Preng Kangan. Similarly, just a few days ago, a 12-year-old boy named Haziq Imtiyaz Bhat drowned near Wayil Manigam while trying to enjoy the river’s waters.
Despite a ban on swimming and bathing imposed by the local administration in response to mounting accidents, the adherence to these regulations remains minimal. Ganderbal Police have been forced to impose restrictions on gatherings near the banks of Sindh Nallah to mitigate further tragedies.
The residents of Ganderbal call for a collective effort from the administration, tourists, and locals to ensure that the allure of selfies and bathing does not overshadow the safety measures in place. As the district continues to attract visitors from all corners, it is hoped that a renewed emphasis on responsible tourism will help prevent further loss of life along the stunning yet treacherous Sindh Nallah.
