Pahalgam, Sep 3: The fragile ecological landscape of Pahalgam is facing renewed scrutiny over alleged construction activity in and around protected forest and wildlife areas, with claims that several new huts have come up near Mamal in the name of renovation.

The allegations are significant as construction in designated forest and wildlife areas is subject to strict legal and regulatory restrictions. The J&K High Court has previously observed that existing structures in such areas could continue, but fresh construction would not be permitted. Repairs and renovations, where allowed, are required to follow the prescribed procedure and comply with the applicable Master Plan.

According to sources familiar with the matter, some influential individuals have allegedly used the distinction between renovation and reconstruction to develop structures beyond the original footprint of existing huts. They claimed that while alterations to existing structures require regulatory scrutiny, new construction has allegedly taken place in an ecologically sensitive area.

The allegations raise questions over whether the structures near Mamal have received the necessary permissions and clearances. If the construction is unauthorized, questions also arise over how the work was allowed to continue.

Environmental concerns surrounding Pahalgam extend beyond individual structures. Its forests, slopes, streams and deodar stands form an important ecological system that supports the stability of the landscape and natural drainage of the valley.

The increasing frequency of extreme weather events across the Himalayan region has also highlighted the risks associated with unplanned development in fragile mountain environments. Changing precipitation patterns, unstable slopes and rising climate pressures can increase the vulnerability of such areas to floods, landslides and other disasters.

Against this backdrop, environmental observers believe that any alteration of Pahalgam's natural landscape requires careful scrutiny. The issue is not limited to whether an individual structure has received construction permission, but also whether cumulative changes to forests, slopes and drainage systems could increase risks for local communities and visitors.

Locals and environmental observers have also raised concerns over the alleged cutting of mature deodar trees in the Pahalgam forest landscape. The loss of old trees, they argue, cannot be adequately compensated merely through plantation of new saplings elsewhere, given the ecological role and maturity of established forests.

Pahalgam has previously witnessed disputes over construction and encroachment. During earlier proceedings, the High Court was informed about structures in forest and wildlife areas, including the Mamal forest belt, and authorities were directed to identify and document structures located in prohibited zones.

The latest allegations have therefore revived concerns over whether restrictions governing protected areas are being effectively enforced.

At the same time, the Government has continued to expand wildlife-related infrastructure in the Pahalgam landscape. An official notification issued this year provided for acquisition of land at Laripora for extension of the Kashmir Wildlife Zoo, reflecting the importance attached to conservation and wildlife infrastructure in the region.

The Wildlife Department and other concerned authorities now face questions over the alleged constructions near Mamal. If the structures have been authorized, the basis of the permissions and the clearances obtained need to be established. If they are unauthorized, questions remain over the enforcement action taken against them.

Attempts to obtain a response from the concerned Divisional Forest Officer were unsuccessful.

For Pahalgam, the issue extends beyond a handful of disputed structures. Damage to mature forests, slopes and natural drainage systems can have long-term consequences and may be difficult to reverse. With Himalayan ecosystems facing growing environmental and climatic pressures, stronger enforcement of ecological safeguards remains critical to protecting Pahalgam's fragile landscape.