09/07/2026
Subject: Urgent Request to Protect the Freshwater Rivers Along the Amarnath Yatra Route
To,
The Chief Executive Officer, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board,
The District Administration of Anantnag and Ganderbal,
The Department of Ecology, Environment & Remote Sensing, Jammu & Kashmir,
The Jammu & Kashmir Pollution Control Committee,
The Department of Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir.
Respected Sir/Madam,
I wish to draw your urgent attention to a matter of serious public and environmental concern.
Along the Amarnath Yatra route, particularly in the Pahalgam and Sonamarg/Baltal areas, many people are bathing in rivers, using soap and shampoo, washing clothes, and in some instances even defecating in or near these freshwater streams. These rivers are a vital source of drinking water for thousands of local residents and downstream communities.
Such practices pose a significant risk to public health, pollute fragile Himalayan ecosystems, and undermine the sanctity of one of India's most revered pilgrimage routes. Preventing contamination of these pristine water bodies is essential for both environmental conservation and the well-being of pilgrims and local populations.
I respectfully request the concerned authorities to:
- Enforce a strict prohibition on the use of soap, shampoo, and detergents in natural rivers and streams.
- Ensure adequate public toilets, bathing facilities, and washing areas away from freshwater sources.
- Install clear multilingual signboards informing pilgrims that polluting rivers is prohibited.
- Deploy volunteers and enforcement teams to educate visitors and prevent violations.
- Take appropriate action against those found polluting these water bodies.
Protecting our rivers is a shared responsibility. Timely intervention will help preserve these invaluable natural resources for future generations while ensuring a safe and environmentally responsible pilgrimage.
I sincerely hope this matter receives your immediate attention.
Yours faithfully,
Mir Jhon Mohammad
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