22/07/2025
📰Big step towards environmental protection in Bhaderwah – Complete ban on plastic waste in high altitude areas
📍Location: Bhaderwah, District Doda (Jammu and Kashmir)
🗓️ Date: 21 July 2025
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🌿 Special Report | Correspondent - Rajni Suryavanshi (Fair Voice News)
Bharderwah Forest Division has taken an important and commendable decision to protect the environment and maintain ecological balance. A complete ban has been imposed on the use and disposal of non-biodegradable waste, especially plastic material, in the high-altitude grasslands and environmentally sensitive areas of the region.
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🔍 Key points of the ban:
Prohibited items:
Plastic bottles, plastic plates, glasses, spoons, pouches, chips wrappers, straws, plastic packaging etc.
Applicable area:
High Himalayan grasslands of Bhaderwah such as Jai, Padhari, Chatargala, Sonbhairi, Barai, Kashi Patthar and areas around other trekking and pilgrimage sites.
Target group:
Tourists, trekkers, pilgrims, hoteliers, travel agents, local guides, shopkeepers and caterers.
Penalty action:
Action will be taken against those violating the ban under the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Act 1987, Indian Forest Act 1927, and Environment Protection Act 1986.
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📢 Administration's appeal:
Forest department officials have appealed to the general public to adopt the spirit of "waste free trekking" and develop the habit of bringing back garbage. Also cooperate in protecting natural beauty and biodiversity.
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🌱 Objectives:
Keep the environment pollution-free
Protect Himalayan biodiversity
Protect wildlife habitats
Keep water sources clean
Promote sustainable tourism
🗣️ Public response:
Local residents, environmental activists and travel agencies have welcomed the move.
"This is a bold and welcome initiative. This will keep nature safe for our future," – a local environmentalist.
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🔖 Conclusion:
This decision of the Bhaderwah Forest Department is not only important from the environmental point of view, but it is a big step towards promoting Jammu and Kashmir as a clean, sustainable and responsible tourist destination.
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🖋️ Presented by: Rajni Suryavanshi | Fair Voice News
