Srinagar, June 30 : Several tourists travelling to Gurez via Ganderbal, Srinagar and Sonamarg have alleged that they are being charged unauthorised entry fees at municipal toll points, particularly in Sumbal and Ganderbal, sparking resentment among visitors and raising concerns over the legality of the collections.

According to the tourists, private vehicles are allegedly being charged between ?100 and ?200 at the toll points without any visible government notification, approved rate list or proper receipts. Visitors described the practice as arbitrary and unjustified.
"We have travelled to many tourist destinations across the country, but we have never seen private vehicles being forced to pay such entry charges without any official notification or clarity," several tourists said, expressing disappointment over the alleged collections.
The tourists maintained that collecting entry fees from private vehicles is illegal unless specifically authorised under law. They demanded an immediate inquiry and strict action against those responsible for the alleged unauthorised collections.
The issue has also raised concerns among residents, who fear that such practices could tarnish the image of Kashmir as a tourist-friendly destination and discourage visitors from returning.
When contacted, the Executive Officer of the Municipal Committee, Sumbal, stated that the complaints would be investigated, and appropriate action would be taken against the contractor if any rule violations were found. The official said details regarding the nature of the collections and the authority under which the charges are being imposed are being examined.
Meanwhile, the Executive Officer, Municipal Committee Ganderbal, said the toll collection system had been recently outsourced and that the contractor had already been served a notice for allegedly not adhering to the prescribed guidelines.
"The contract has been outsourced recently. We have already issued a notice to the contractor. If they fail to follow the prescribed guidelines, the contract will be cancelled," the Executive Officer said.
Responding to the issue, the Director, Urban Local Bodies, Kashmir, Qazi Sarwar, assured that the matter would be looked into promptly. He clarified that the municipal toll is meant only for commercial vehicles and not for private tourist vehicles.
"If anyone is found collecting toll from private vehicles in violation of the rules, strict action will be initiated," the Director said.
Tourists have welcomed the assurances from the authorities and expressed hope that swift action will be taken to stop the alleged illegal collections, ensuring a hassle-free experience for visitors travelling to the Valley's tourist destinations.