Srinagar, Feb 19: In a decisive move to safeguard tourists and regulate services at the premier resort of Sonamarg, Ganderbal Police have intensified their enforcement campaign against unregistered service providers and overcharging, detaining 11 photographers and registering an FIR during a special drive.
The action, carried out by Police Station Sonamarg, under SHO Afaq Majid, on the directions of SSP Ganderbal Khalil Ahmed Poswal crackdown individuals operating without a valid registration in the high-footfall tourist zone. Acting under Sections 126/170 of the BNSS, police identified and detained 11 unregistered photographers, who were later produced before the Executive Magistrate, Gund, for further legal proceedings.
Officials said the drive was launched to prevent and curb exorbitant pricing and address security concerns in the sensitive tourist destination. “Regulating service providers is essential to ensure safety, transparency and a hassle-free experience for visitors,” an official said.
In a related action, police lodged one FIR against a service provider for overcharging tourists. During the past week alone, Tourist Police and Sonamarg police fines amounting to around Rs 50,000 were realised with the assistance of Tourist Police as part of sustained enforcement against violators.
Alongside strict action, the police also conducted a comprehensive awareness programme for service providers in the area. Stakeholders were sensitised about mandatory registration, code of conduct, professional behaviour, tenant verification norms and strict adherence to the law, particularly with regard to underage verification and documentation requirements.
Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a safe and tourist-friendly environment, Ganderbal Police said the crackdown will continue in the coming time. Authorities have urged all service providers to obtain proper registration and strictly comply with guidelines, warning that any violation will invite stringent legal consequences.
The intensified enforcement comes amid rising tourist inflow to Sonamarg, with authorities determined to ensure both security and fair practices at one of Kashmir’s most visited destinations.
