Bandipora: The Bandipora district administration on Thursday set up a plastic checkpoint at Tragbal on the road to Gurez and launched the “Polythene-Free Gurez” campaign to discourage the use of single-use plastic and promote sustainable tourism in the valley.
According to an official statement, the initiative is being implemented under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) with the support of the Indian Army.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib inaugurated the checkpoint and appealed to tourists travelling to Gurez to avoid carrying single-use plastic and instead use eco-friendly alternatives to help protect the valley’s fragile ecosystem.
The administration said the checkpoint has been established in view of the increase in plastic waste following the opening of Gurez Valley for the tourist season.
As part of the initiative, travellers will have access to alternatives such as steel water bottles and cloth bags at the checkpoint. A washroom and a food point have also been set up for the convenience of visitors.
The campaign is being implemented under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) under the leadership of the Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, Bandipora, with support from the Rural Development Department and the District Administration, the statement said.
The administration said it would continue efforts to promote responsible tourism and protect the ecological integrity of Gurez Valley through coordinated action and public participation.
