Restrictions imposed on trekking and camping in Bhaderwah over safety concerns

BHADERWAH July 08 — Authorities in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir have banned trekking, hiking, camping, and other adventure activities across the Bhaderwah subdivision without prior regulatory approval.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Sunil Kumar Bhityal issued the restrictive order under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, making it effective immediately until further notice.

Under the new directive, no individual, group, tour operator, or organization is permitted to coordinate or participate in adventure activities within the territorial jurisdiction of Bhaderwah without securing written permission from the competent authority beforehand.

The administration implemented these measures to enhance public safety, monitoring, and inter-agency coordination due to prevailing security concerns and significant environmental risks. The region faces challenges from difficult terrain, sudden weather shifts, landslides, and flash floods. While the strict restrictions do not apply to nomadic communities such as the Gujjar-Bakarwals and Gaddies, their seasonal movements will still remain subject to separate official clearances. The Police, Indian Army, Forest Department, Bhadarwah Development Authority, and executive magistrates have been tasking with enforcing the mandate, with warnings that violations will invite legal action under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and other applicable laws.