EPG raises alarm over proposed Srinagar-Pahalgam road, citing environmental concerns

Srinagar, Mar 15: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has expressed concern on the proposed construction of a new road from Srinagar to Pahalgam via Khrew.

As per the statement issued by Convenor EPG, Faiz Bakshi, this project, which as per the Government, involves cutting down 845 trees and the acquisition of 108 kanals of forest land that come in its alignment, is bound to adversely affect the otherwise fragile environment of the region and ecology of the area through which it passes.

He said that though the justification for this road primarily centres around the reduction of travel distance by 30 kilometres in comparison to the already existing two roads that lead to Pahalgam, the cost on account of environmental impact due to deforestation and disruption of local biodiversity far outweigh any perceived benefits in terms of cost-benefit ratio.

"With two existing roads already connecting Srinagar and Pahalgam, the necessity of this new route is not at all justified to be a pressing requirement.

Concerns have been raised regarding the impact of potential tunnelling to avoid the destruction of forest areas as an alternate solution. Excavating tunnels through mountains is bound to weaken their rock structure and disrupt vital water sources besides having adverse effects on the ecology of the region comprising natural landscapes that serve communities and wildlife equally," Bakshi said.

As Kashmir falls in seismic zone 5—an area characterised by a high risk of earthquakes—a thorough geographic technical assessment is essential before initiating any tunnelling projects, especially with active and dormant volcanic features. The assessment must address subsurface geological conditions to identify fault lines and volcanic activity, which are crucial for avoiding catastrophic failures. Evaluating the geo-hydraulic conditions will help in assessing groundwater impacts and potential hazards during construction. Given the challenging terrain and geological variability in the region, constructability considerations are vital. Additionally, the long-term environmental impact due to seismic activity must be analyzed, to ensure that local ecosystems are preserved. The Government is requested to keep under consideration the devastation and loss of life caused by such activities in Uttarakhand, Himachal etc.

Understanding land use restrictions is critical for compliance with regional laws and ongoing community developments.

Significantly, the proposed road is reported to pass through the Notified Wildlife Sanctuary at Tral and will be detrimental to the wildlife, in the Sanctuary. The proposed route endangers essential habitats and affects the natural water cycle, which could result in detrimental impacts on both flora and fauna.

The construction of this road, framed as a means to boost tourism and create employment, must be reconsidered in light of the long-term ecological implications. Kashmir being a treasure trove of natural resources, and its only USP, can attract tourists only when these invaluable resources are protected, and that will also help in generating employment, he said.

The Environmental Policy Group calls for putting a stop to the planning and development related to the Srinagar-Pahalgam road project until a comprehensive environmental impact assessment is conducted. We urge stakeholders to explore sustainable alternatives that prioritize conservation and protect our invaluable natural resources. The integrity of our mountains and forests should not be sacrificed for short-term economic gains. It is crucial to seek solutions that can enhance tourism and employment without compromising our environment.

It may be mentioned that the proposal for the construction of this road also needs clearance from the Supreme Court.