Aaqib Khan

Gulmarg, Nov 11 (KNS): The Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) on Wednesday announced the enforcement of a complete ban on polythene use in the tourist resort of Gulmarg, warning that violators would face legal action.

GDA Chief Executive Officer Ilyas Ahmad, while speaking to reporters on the sidelines of an event, said the authorities had launched a drive to enforce the ban and reduce plastic pollution in the tourist destination.

He said more than 10,000 alternative bags had been procured for distribution among local traders to help them shift away from polythene.

"We have procured over 10,000 alternative bags for traders. Anyone found violating the ban will face strict legal action," Ahmad said.

The CEO urged shopkeepers, traders, tourists, drivers and people associated with tourism-related activities to stop using polythene and cooperate with the enforcement drive.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

He said the move was aimed at addressing pollution caused by improper waste disposal and protecting Gulmarg's environmentally sensitive surroundings.

The Municipal Committee Gulmarg-Tangmarg has also assured its support to the GDA in implementing the ban.

Authorities have appealed to residents, businesses and visitors to comply with the restrictions and adopt alternatives to polythene.

The GDA, however, did not specify the penalties applicable to violations or provide details about the monitoring and enforcement arrangements under the drive. (KNS)