Baramulla, Aug 20: ( RK) A hotel project in Mahiyan, Drung valley, has come under sharp scrutiny after allegations of illegal construction surfaced in one of north Kashmir’s most ecologically sensitive zones.
The project, situated near the banks of the Ferozpur Nallah, is being described by officials as a potential violation of land-use regulations and environmental safeguards.
Drung valley, about 50 kilometers from Srinagar, falls under the jurisdiction of the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA), where all commercial construction is subject to strict regulatory approval under the Master Plan.
According to sources, the hotel structure has been rising without the full set of clearances from the concerned departments. Preliminary reports suggest the project may have proceeded without permission from the GDA, raising concerns over how work was allowed to continue unchecked.
District Commissioner (DC) Baramulla Dr Minga Sherpa confirmed that an official probe has been launched.
“We have directed revenue and enforcement teams to verify the legality of the construction in Mahiyan. If it is found to be illegal or lacking mandatory approvals, strict action will follow as per law,” the DC said.
Incharge Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gulmarg Development Authority, Tariq Ahmad also confirmed the inquiry.
“Drung valley is classified as an ecologically sensitive zone. No hotel or commercial project can come up without approval from the competent authority. We are examining the case and action will be taken against any violations,” the CEO said.
Environmental observers say the site of the hotel is particularly vulnerable, as large-scale construction near the Ferozpur Nallah could disrupt natural drainage, trigger soil erosion, and affect water quality. Officials added that unregulated hotels in the Drung belt could place severe pressure on fragile ecosystems, threatening both biodiversity and sustainable tourism.
The issue has also exposed gaps in monitoring and enforcement. Residents allege that influential individuals have often been able to push through projects in restricted zones, bypassing regulations meant to protect sensitive landscapes.
Administration officials admitted that the matter highlights the need for stronger oversight of commercial construction in tourism-heavy regions like Gulmarg and Drung.
With the hotel already at an advanced stage of construction, authorities face pressure to act decisively. Options under consideration, according to officials, include penalties, sealing of the property, or demolition if the violations are confirmed.
The controversy has reignited debate over unregulated development in Kashmir’s tourist destinations, where the balance between economic opportunity and environmental protection remains precarious.
The outcome of the Mahiyan case is likely to set a precedent for how future projects are regulated in sensitive zones across the Valley.(Roshan Kashmir)
