SUHAIL KHAN
Gulmarg, Dec 24: The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA), Tariq Hussain has asserted that there will be no compromise in preserving the natural beauty of Gulmarg.
In an exclusive interview with Kashmir Despatch, CEO Tariq Hussain emphasized that Gulmarg occupies a unique position in terms of its resources and infrastructure. “Although we are currently in the initial stages concerning trade and employment, our goal is to maintain Gulmarg’s distinct status without any compromise,”.
Hussain expressed that such beautiful places are a privilege for a select few and aims to foster a team spirit to enhance Gulmarg’s beauty and attract more tourists. He underscored that there will be no reduction in efforts to preserve the area’s natural scenery.
He made it clear that no one will be permitted to damage Gulmarg’s ecology. “It is crucial to avoid any disturbances to nature and prioritize the preservation of Gulmarg’s pristine environment,” he said. He added that natural resources do not develop overnight or in just a few months; instead, they take centuries to mature, and therefore, protecting them will involve no compromises.
While acknowledging that Gulmarg is a top choice for tourists, he noted that development is essential but must not come at the expense of destroying natural resources. Proper development will follow a master plan to ensure environmental sustainability.
Tariq assured that established mechanisms are in place, and no one will be allowed to harm the ecology in the name of development or disrupt any ecosystems.
The CEO of the GDA further stated that strict action would be taken against those who carry out illegal constructions in the Gulmarg or Tangmarg areas.
“Nobody will be allowed to misuse the permissions. Only those constructions that have proper Building Operations Control Authority (BOCA) permission, in accordance with the Master Plan, will be allowed,” the CEO of the GDA said.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
