Sonamarg, known for its pristine landscapes and ecological sensitivity, is facing serious environmental damage due to the unchecked operation of snow bikes on green patches with little to no snow cover. These activities are being carried out in clear violation of established norms, raising questions over the failure of the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) and the Tourism Department to enforce regulations.
Sources within the department revealed that snow bikes are permitted to operate only when snow depth exceeds two feet. However, current conditions show only a few inches of snow, leading to extensive damage to grasslands that are classified as protected green zones.
Notably, vehicular movement in these areas stands explicitly banned by the Hon’ble High Court, yet snow bikes continue to run openly, causing irreversible harm to the fragile alpine ecosystem. Environmental experts warn that emissions from these vehicles produce heavy smoke, which not only degrades air quality but also poses a serious threat to nearby glaciers.
Environmental activists and concerned citizens have strongly condemned the ongoing violations, demanding immediate action against the operators and accountability from officials who have allegedly remained silent spectators. They allege that illegal activities are being allowed to continue under a “curtain of silence” for unknown reasons.
Activists stress that Sonamarg’s ecological balance cannot be sacrificed in the name of unchecked tourism and have urged authorities to intervene urgently to protect green patches, enforce court orders, and preserve the region for future generations.
