Jammu and Kashmir Authorities Ban Outdoor Activities in Anantnag for Security Reasons

Outdoor Activities Prohibited in Anantnag

Srinagar, January 2: In a recent directive, officials in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir have banned trekking, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities in high-altitude and forested regions around Kokernag, citing security concerns.

The order, issued by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Kokernag, highlighted recent incidents where individuals attempted to bypass security checkpoints during late-night hours, raising significant safety issues for the public. The SDM noted that unrestricted outdoor activities in areas such as Margan Top, Chauher Nag, and Sinthan Top could jeopardize public safety.

"I, Prince Kumar, Kokernag SDM, exercising my authority under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sinhita (BNSS), 2023, hereby prohibit all trekking, camping, hiking, and similar activities in the Margan Top, Chauher Nag, and Sinthan Top areas effective immediately," the order stated.

The Larnoo Station House Officer has been tasked with enforcing this order and managing the movement at checkpoints. The SDM's directive also urged the public to adhere strictly to the order, warning that violations would result in legal action.

This prohibition will remain in effect for two months from the issuance date unless revoked or extended by law. The decision coincides with ongoing anti-terror operations by joint security forces in the higher regions of Poonch, Rajouri, and Kishtwar districts.

The Valley is linked to Kishtwar district via the Sinthan Top in the Kokernag area, and these operations are focused on targeting terrorists, their associates, and sympathizers, aiming to dismantle the entire support network for terrorism rather than just targeting armed individuals.