By Valley Online
KANGAN: Sonamarg has once again come under the spotlight after a popular YouTuber, Arun Chaudhary, alleged gross overcharging at the SDA-outsourced toll plaza in the tourist destination. In a video shared on social media, Chaudhary claimed that he was charged ₹200 as sanitation fee for a private vehicle—an amount he said is nearly four times higher than the rate prescribed by the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA).
In the video accessed by Valley Online, Chaudhary alleged that tourists are being harassed and arbitrarily charged without any clarity on official rates. His claims have triggered widespread criticism, with citizens and tourists questioning the role of SDA and other concerned authorities for failing to ensure proper implementation of rules in Sonamarg.
Locals and visitors alleged that there are no visible signboards or printed rate lists at entry points and key locations, which allows contractors to overcharge unsuspecting tourists. “In the absence of officially displayed rates, most guests are being cheated,” they said, calling the situation damaging to Sonamarg’s image as a tourist destination.
The aggrieved citizens have demanded that proper signboards and clearly printed rate lists be published and displayed at all important points, especially at entry gates and toll plazas, to ensure transparency and prevent exploitation of tourists.
Meanwhile, sources within the department told Valley Online that the matter would be taken seriously. They said strict action would be initiated against the contractor if a formal complaint is lodged with the competent authority.
The incident has once again raised serious questions about monitoring, accountability, and transparency in Sonamarg, with stakeholders urging authorities to act swiftly to restore trust among tourists and locals alike.
