Need to ban concrete constructions in Gulmarg, Tangmarg to protect eco heritage: Qayoom Wani

Srinagar, Feb 14: The Civil Society Forum has expressed grave concern over the reported move to demarcate land near the historic Dak Bangla in Tangmarg for construction of a Forest Protection Office.

This site, blessed with a natural waterfall and serene landscape, is among the last remaining public spaces where locals and tourists alike gather to experience the pristine beauty of Tangmarg. Any attempt to convert this ecological treasure into a concrete office complex would amount to irreversible environmental and cultural loss, said CSF chairman Abdul Qayoom Wani in a press release.

“Dak Bangla is not merely a structure; it represents the historical legacy and tourism identity of Tangmarg. Unfortunately, years of political and departmental neglect have already diminished its charm. A significant portion of the surrounding area has reportedly been taken over earlier, affecting its aesthetic and public utility value. Further construction will only accelerate environmental degradation and deprive people of a cherished recreational space,” he said.

Equally alarming are reports of proposed constructions, including restaurants and additional infrastructure on Affarwat in Gulmarg. Gulmarg, a world-famous tourist destination known for its fragile alpine ecology, cannot sustain unchecked commercialization. The silence of decision-makers and political representatives on such critical ecological concerns raises serious questions, he added.