EPG denounces illegal overlanding in forest areas, seeks Govt action

Srinagar, Oct 8: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has raised serious concerns over ongoing “overlanding” activities in the forest and meadow areas of Haijan, Branwar, Mechkhanian, and Ashrat in J&K, calling it illegal and environmentally destructive. The group has urged authorities to take immediate and stringent action, warning that the continuation of this practice could cause irreversible damage to fragile ecosystems.

In a statement, Faiz Ahmad Bakshi, Convenor of EPG, said participants are fully aware that their activities violate the law but continue with impunity. “Their reference to such activities being legal abroad is no justification. We are governed by our own laws,” he stressed.

Bakshi highlighted video evidence showing forest trails being destroyed and meadows degraded due to vehicular movement. “Our once-pristine meadows are now facing destruction. Forest zones of Haijan, Branwar, and Mechkhanian are already bearing the brunt. If this continues, it will end in disaster,” he warned.

According to EPG reports, around 3,60,000 kanals of forest land have already been misused for illegal activities, including unregulated vehicular movement. Bakshi recalled similar environmental damage in Branwar about 15 years ago due to small hydropower projects and pipeline laying.

Addressing the youth, he said, “Overlanding causes irreparable damage to forests and green pastures. Comparing this destruction to Dal Lake’s degradation is not a valid justification.” He cited Sonamarg’s Thajwas Glacier as an example where EPG successfully secured a judicial ban within two days, emphasising that similar legal intervention could be pursued again if required.

“The forests are meant for wildlife. They have as much right to live peacefully as humans. Any activity disturbing this ecosystem is both legally and morally wrong,” Bakshi added.

He dismissed claims by some participants that forest trails lacking gates or guards justify overlanding, pointing out the clear distinction between legitimate and illegitimate activities. Bakshi also warned that such reckless behaviour increases man-animal conflicts, endangering lives.

Calling upon the Forest and other concerned departments, as well as the District Administration of Budgam, Bakshi urged immediate intervention. “If the government fails to act, it will take just a short time to obtain a High Court ban. The time to act is now—before these meadows and forests are lost forever,” he said.

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