Encroachment allegations surface in Sonmarg, people question SDA’s silence

Ganderbal: Fresh concerns have emerged in the tourist resort of Sonmarg after locals alleged that land earmarked for a road behind the main market is being encroached upon while the Sonmarg Development Authority (SDA) remains a silent spectator.

The allegations have sparked resentment among local residents and public representatives, who claim that portions of land reserved for public infrastructure are gradually being occupied despite restrictions on construction activities in the environmentally sensitive tourist destination.

According to locals, a road had earlier been laid out behind the main Sonmarg market as part of the area’s development plan. However, residents now allege that even the land designated for the road is no longer safe from encroachment.

The issue has assumed significance as Sonamarg continues to face increasing developmental pressures amid growing tourist footfall and commercial activity.

Locals claim that while private construction activities remain largely prohibited under existing regulations, encroachments on public land are allegedly taking place unchecked.

Sources familiar with the matter told KNT that several small hotel operators located behind the market have allegedly started extending their activities onto portions of land reserved for the road.

Locals alleged that the developments are occurring in full public view and questioned why the Sonamarg Development Authority has not intervened to safeguard the land.

“The concern is not merely about a road. It is about protecting planned infrastructure and preventing gradual encroachment on public assets in one of Kashmir’s most important tourist destinations,” said a resident.

Public representatives warned that failure to act at an early stage could encourage further encroachments and undermine future development plans for Sonamarg.

Locals have appealed to Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal and the Tourism Department to conduct an inquiry into the allegations and verify the status of the land.

They urged authorities to take timely corrective measures to ensure that public land and planned infrastructure remain protected from any unauthorised occupation. [KNT]