Ecotourism in J&K

• 07 Mar 2025

Why in News? 

The Jammu and Kashmir government announced new rules for Bangus, a remote tourist spot near the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir, to promote it as an ecotourism destination. 

 Key Points 

• Uncontrolled Construction in Popular Tourist Spots: 
  • The decision to develop Bangus as an ecotourism destination follows unchecked and unplanned construction in Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonamarg. 
  • Authorities have observed rapid concrete expansion in these traditional tourist hubs, affecting the ecological balance. 
• Focus on Sustainable Development: 
  • The concerned department aims to prevent large-scale hotel and building constructions to maintain the region’s ecological balance. 
  • The approach prioritizes sustainable tourism while preserving the natural landscape. 
• Basic Amenities for Visitors: 
  • The government plans to create recreational spaces, rain shelters, public conveniences, signages, lighting, and waste disposal facilities. 
    • These developments aim to enhance visitor experience while minimizing environmental impact. 
  • Work on basic facilities will begin after the Deputy Commissioner of Kupwara, in consultation with the Forest Department, identifies suitable land parcels. 
    • Necessary permissions and clearances will be obtained through the Parivesh Portal for forest clearance before proceeding with construction. 
• Geographic and Strategic Importance: 
  • Bangus is located in Kupwara district near the Line of Control (LoC), approximately 100 km from Srinagar. 
  • It consists of two bowl-shaped valleys at an altitude of 10,000 feet. 
  • The region, once an infiltration route for militants, is now being promoted as a secure tourist destination. 
• Promoting Local Livelihoods: 
  • The J&K Tourism Department is registering paying guest houses to support local shepherds, nomads, and residents. 
  • This initiative seeks to preserve and promote the local culture, traditions, and cuisine while offering tourists an immersive experience. 

Line of Control  

  

• The Line of Control (LoC) emerged from the 1948 ceasefire line negotiated by the United Nations (UN) after the Kashmir War.  
• It was designated as the LoC in 1972, following the Shimla Agreement between the two countries.  
• LoC is demarcated up to the Siachen Glacier (Point NJ9842)- the world's highest battlefield.  
• LoC is delineated on a map signed by the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of both armies and has the international sanctity of a legal agreement.