Srinagar, July 02, KDC: To manage the surge in tourists and locals visiting Gulmarg on weekends, the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA) has issued an advisory to schools in Kashmir. The advisory suggests avoiding planning excursions on Saturdays and Sundays and outlines guidelines for those wishing to visit on weekdays.
“In view of the heavy rush of locals and tourists to Gulmarg on weekends, it has become necessary to enforce regulatory measures. Therefore, the heads of private and government schools of Kashmir Division are advised to plan their excursions on weekdays instead of weekends (Saturday or Sunday), for their convenience and that of local authorities,” reads a circular issued by the Chief Executive Officer of Gulmarg Development Authority, a copy of which is with the Srinagar-based news gathering agency Kashmir Dot Com.
“Furthermore, they are advised to apply for prior permission from GDA at least one week before the excursion, by emailing [email protected] or contacting 9622500725. They should include details such as the total number of buses, number of students, bus members, and mobile numbers of in-charge teachers/staff. No school buses will be allowed to enter Gulmarg without prior permission from the Gulmarg Development Authority.”
“It is also recommended to limit the number of buses to fewer than four per school, as a large fleet of buses causes traffic jams and congestion due to limited parking space in Gulmarg.”
“Moreover, children and accompanying staff should be made aware that Gulmarg is an eco-fragile zone, and littering or use of plastic and polythene here is a punishable offence,” the circular further states.
Additionally, the CEO has written to the Director of School Education, Kashmir, seeking issuance of necessary directions/advisories to schools in Kashmir Division for the implementation of the above guidelines. (KDC)
