Srinagar, June 18, 2026 : Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti on Thursday called for restrictions on the number of tourist vehicles entering Kashmir, citing increasing traffic congestion and growing environmental concerns in the Valley.
Expressing concern over the rising influx of vehicles, Mufti said the sudden surge in traffic, particularly along Srinagar’s busy Boulevard-Nishat route, is linked to a growing number of tourists opting to drive into Kashmir instead of travelling by air.
In a post on X, she argued that Kashmir’s existing road infrastructure and delicate ecological balance are unable to sustain the increasing vehicular pressure.
“The sudden traffic surge in Srinagar this year, especially the Boulevard-Nishat route, has a lot to do with tourists driving into the Valley instead of flights. Given the state of congested roads and Kashmir’s fragile environment, caps on tourist cars must be introduced,” Mufti said.
Concerns Over Traffic and Environment
The PDP leader warned that unchecked growth in tourist vehicle movement could have long-term consequences for both urban mobility and environmental sustainability in the region.
She noted that traffic congestion has become increasingly visible in Srinagar and other tourist destinations, causing inconvenience to residents and visitors alike.
“Neither Kashmir’s streets nor our ecology can handle this huge rush. Hope the Government takes note,” she added.
Debate Over Sustainable Tourism
The remarks come amid a significant rise in tourist arrivals to Jammu and Kashmir, with the region continuing to attract visitors from across the country due to improved connectivity and growing interest in the Valley’s natural attractions.
However, environmental experts and urban planners have repeatedly raised concerns about the carrying capacity of popular tourist destinations, stressing the need for sustainable tourism policies that balance economic benefits with ecological preservation.
Mufti’s proposal is likely to reignite discussions on traffic management, environmental conservation and the long-term sustainability of tourism growth in Kashmir.
While no official response has been issued by the government so far, the issue of managing tourist traffic and protecting the Valley’s fragile ecosystem remains a key concern for policymakers and environmental stakeholders.
