Srinagar, March 15 — The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) has raised concerns over the proposed Srinagar-Pahalgam road via Khrew, warning that it could severely impact the region’s fragile ecosystem, as the project involves cutting down 845 trees and acquiring 108 kanals of forest land.
“The destruction of green cover for infrastructure projects without adequate environmental safeguards will have long-term consequences,” said an EPG spokesperson.
“This road is not just a threat to trees but to the entire ecological balance of the area.”
Despite claims that the road would reduce travel distance by 30 kilometers, the EPG questions its necessity, given that two existing routes already connect Srinagar and Pahalgam.
“With well-established roads in place, why are we risking our forests and wildlife?” the spokesperson asked.
“The environmental cost of deforestation and habitat destruction far outweighs the benefits of a shorter route.”
Concerns have also been raised about tunneling alternatives, which could destabilize rock formations, disrupt underground water sources, and pose risks in the seismically active Zone 5.
“We have seen what happened in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh when reckless development ignored ecological warnings,” the group mentioned.
“We cannot afford to make the same mistakes in Kashmir.”
The proposed road is expected to pass through the Notified Wildlife Sanctuary at Tral, threatening wildlife habitats and disrupting natural water cycles.
While the project has been framed as a boost for tourism and employment, the EPG maintains that Kashmir’s natural beauty remains its key attraction.
“Tourists come to Kashmir for its pristine environment,” an EPG member said.
“Destroying that for the sake of convenience is short-sighted and unsustainable.”
Calling for an immediate halt to planning and construction, the group has stressed the need for a comprehensive environmental impact assessment before any further action.
“No project of this scale should proceed without a full scientific review,” the spokesperson added.
The EPG also noted that the project requires Supreme Court clearance and urged authorities to explore sustainable alternatives that balance development with conservation.
Pertinently, the J&K government on Wednesday announced that a new Srinagar-Pahalgam road will be constructed through Khrew, reducing travel distance by around 30 kilometers. However, the project depends on fund availability and forest clearance.