REVISED MASTER PLAN-2032 Pahalgam Development...

REVISED MASTER PLAN-2032

Pahalgam Development Authority

Prepared by:

TOWN PLANNING ORGANISATION Kashmir

Srinagar

Master Plan Pahalgam-2032 Pahalgam Development Authority

Town Planning Organization Kashmir Page i

Preface

The Master Plan Pahalgam -2025 prepared in 2005 by Town Planning Organisation Kashmir was found at fault on many grounds. Apart

from basic planning errors, poor implementation and lack of enforcement, the Master Plan lacked in unbiased vision and sensitivity

among Town Planners otherwise required for such a fragile area. While revisiting the Master Plan, various deficiencies, anomalies,

violations and shortcomings were noticed. One of the major fallacies of the Master Plan-2025 was the unwarranted landuse change of

existing village settlements into ‘Green Areas’ without even respecting the legal and natural rights of the locals. Besides inconsistency

in the landuse proposals contemplated for the development of tourism infrastructure like huts, hotels and Guest Houses, the

proposals were ironically not scaled to suitability. The Jammu &Kashmir Wildlife (Protection) Act-1978, the Jammu &Kashmir Forest

Act-1987 (1930 AD), the Jammu & Kashmir Forest (Conservation) Act 1997, Pahalgam Forest Rules, 1999, Environment Protection Act

1986 and Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution) Act, 1974were ignored resulting in unwarranted landuse change, deforestation,

declining fodder fields, urban sprawl, environment pollution etc. Having lived half of its life, the Master Plan-2025had become

redundant and irrelevant to the ground realities. The Master Plan had its primary focus on landuse rather than local economic

development. The policies for the promotion of tourism sector were not consistent with the aspiration of the locals. It was benefitting

a select group of entrepreneurs while ignoring the economic empowerment of the local communities.

Consequent upon these shortcomings, the Master Plan-2025 was challenged at various forums. The PIL: OWP (PIL) No. 484/2010 –

Pahalgam Peoples Welfare Organization V/s State & Others challenged the provisions of the Master Plan on the personal bias of the

team. People registered their resentment with the Honourable High Court of J&K against the injustice meted out to them. The Court

intervened and constituted an Expert Committee on 5th May, 2011 to look into the incongruities and discrepancies in the Master Plan.

The Committee Members seriously objected to the lack of application of the sensitivity of this very important task entrusted to the

Planners. On the other hand, in view of the mandatory requirement under law, the Government of Jammu & Kashmir entrusted the

job of conducting EIA to the Centre for Research and Development, University of Kashmir in October, 2010. The EIA report submitted

by the University among other aspects highlighted major loopholes in the Greater Pahalgam Master Plan -2025 recommending that the

Master Plan be revisited using latest technology.

The Honourable High Court taking note of the comments/response filed by the State directed itto follow the procedure provided for

amendment of the existing Master Plan in a given time frame. In view of the court directions, the State Government entrusted the job


Town Planning Organization Kashmir Page ii

of revising the Master Plan Pahalgam-2025 to Town Planning Organisation Kashmir vide Order No: 555 –TSM of 2012 dated: 29-11-2012

in pursuance of the cabinet decision. The objective of revising the Master Plan was to incorporate the recommendations of the Expert

Committee and those put forth in the EIA report of University of Kashmir.

Pahalgam in general can be divided into three geographies—Local Area of Pahalgam Development Authority, forest areas and wildlife

areas—each to be regulated under different legal framework with the basic objective of the preservation of the destination as the ace

tourist destination ensuring the economic and social development of local communities. The boundaries of these geographies in the

this Master Plan and their interface are based on the demarcations provided by Forest and Wildlife Departments. The forest

demarcation boundary provided by Forest Department vide their office No: CCF (K) LO/13/614-18 dated 26-9-2013 has resulted in certain

tourist areas including JK TDC hutment area, some hotels and similar tourist infrastructure falling within demarcated forest and

decision needs to be taken on this issue by the Government so that are no blurred areas left for working out the implementation

strategy as defined in this Master Plan. Similarly the wildlife will have to make their guidelines unambiguous ensuring the preservation

as well as the rights of people within the Wildlife areas as per the provisions of the Wildlife Act. Eco-sensitive zones will have to be

unequivocally delineated along with clear guidelines for the kind of activity that can be allowed in these areas. Pahalgam Development

Authority, J&K Wildlife Department and the Forest Department will have to work in collaboration ensuring that there are no blurred

lines of working between these departments.

One of the means of ensuring coherent working is to establish a kind of single window system for building permission clearance in the

local area with the members of BOCA visiting the site together and taking a unified decision without compromising the ecology of the

area as well as time bound disposal of the cases for smooth tourism development. The role of Pollution Control Board is important and

should be co-opted as the member of BOCA.

The Master Plan Pahalgam-2032 is a policy framework which will be followed by micro-plans immediately ensuring that the policy

framework is translated into a detailed plan for different zones as well as villages. Role of urban design guidelines is very important to

ensure harmonious blend with the natural ecology of the area.


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The Master Plan is being submitted to Tourism and Culture Department for the approval of the Cabinet. The Master Plan Pahalgam-

2032 incorporates the directions conveyed by the Honourable Chief Minister, J&K during the review meeting of Draft Master Plan held

on 10.05.2015 and the subsequent field visit of Pahalgam conducted by the Honourable Chief Minister on 12.05.2015.

(Iftikhar A. Hakim) Chief Town Planner Town Planning Organisation

Kashmir


Town Planning Organization Kashmir Page iv

Working Team

Core Team

Iftikhar A. Hakim Chief Town Planner, Kashmir

Gulzar A. Dar Town Planner

Mohsin Nabi Malik Assistant Town Planner (Contractual)

Drafting & Digitization

Mohd. Shafi Wani GIS Expert (Contractual)

Manzoor A. Najjar GIS Expert (Contractual)

Tahir Lanerchay Planning Assistant (Contractual)

Waseem Raja Planning Assistant (Contractual)

Data Compilation

Mohsin Nabi Malik Assistant Town Planner (Contractual)

Mehran Qurashi Intern (SPA, New Delhi)

Sunim Amin Field Inspector (S/I Division, TPOK)

Survey Team/Data Collection

Mubashir Hassan Junior Engineer (Contractual)

Mohammad Ilyas Junior Engineer (Contractual)


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Table of Contents Chapter-I ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 1

1.0 MASTER PLAN RATIONALE AND BACKGROUND ......................................................................................... 1

1.1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................................... 1

1.2 TOWARDS REVISED MASTER PLAN PAHALGAM-2032 .................................................................................. 5

1.3 LOCAL AREA OF PAHALGAM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY ...................................................................... 6

Chapter-II ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7

2.0 DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS ................................................................................................................ 7

2.1 SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS ............................................................................................................ 7

2.2.1 POPULATION OF LOCAL AREA .......................................................................................................................... 7

2.2.2 ECONOMIC BASE ................................................................................................................................................... 9

Chapter-III............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 11

3.0 TOURIST FLOW AND DEMAND FORECAST ANALYSIS ............................................................................... 11

3.1 STATE TOURISM SCENARIO .............................................................................................................................. 11

3.2 TOURIST FLOW AND DEMAND FORECAST ................................................................................................... 11

Chapter-IV ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 15

4.0 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS ............................................................................................ 15

4.1 GUIDING PRINCIPLES ........................................................................................................................................ 15

4.2 PLANNING CONCEPT ......................................................................................................................................... 15

4.3 SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS ...................................................................................................................................... 17

4.4 LANDUSE POLICY FOR THE REGION ............................................................................................................. 19

4.4.1 LANDUSE POLICY FOR MANZIMPORA AND YANNER-MOWURA BELT ................................................. 22


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4.4.2 LANDUSE POLICY FOR POTENTIAL TOURIST PLACES .............................................................................. 23

4.4.3 PROPOSED LANDUSE-2032 ................................................................................................................................ 24

4.5 TOURIST INFRASTRUCTURE ............................................................................................................................. 25

4.5 ETHNIC BAZAAR/CRAFT CENTRES ................................................................................................................ 29

4.6 LEISURE (PARKS, GARDENS AND ARBORETUMS) ....................................................................................... 34

4.7 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION ................................................................................................................... 35

4.8 SANITATION PLAN .............................................................................................................................................. 41

4.8.1 SOLIDWASTE MANAGEMENT .......................................................................................................................... 41

4.8.2 WATER SUPPLY AND SEWERAGE DISPOSAL ................................................................................................ 43

4.9 SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE ................................................................................................................................ 46

a) HEALTH ................................................................................................................................................................. 46

b) SHEEP & ANIMAL HUSBANDRY ....................................................................................................................... 47

Chapter-V ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 48

5.0 ENVIRONMENT CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT PLAN ................................................................ 48

5.1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................................. 48

5.2 LAND/TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT ........................................................................................................... 48

5.3 FLORA AND FAUNA (FOREST AND WILDLIFE) ............................................................................................ 50

5.4 AESTHAICS, VIOLATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT CONTROL REGULATIONS ........................................ 58

5.5 CONSERVATION OF THE HIGH ALTITUDE LAKES AND DOWNSLOPE WATER STREAMS ............... 59

5.6 BUILT UP ENVIRONMENT AND AMARNATH YATRA ................................................................................. 61

Chapter VI ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 69

6.0 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY AND RESOURCE MOBILIZATION .......................................................... 69


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6.1 INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................................................. 69

6.2 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK ........................................................................................................................ 70

6.3 RESOURCE MOBILIZATION .............................................................................................................................. 72

6.4 PHASING OF DEVELOPMENT .......................................................................................................................... 74

6.5 REVIEW AND MONITORING OF THE MASTER PLAN ................................................................................. 79

Chapter-VII .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 81

7.0 DEVELOPMENT PROMOTION RULES AND REGULATIONS ...................................................................... 81

7.1 ZONING REGULATIONS .................................................................................................................................... 81

7.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR DEVELOPMENT ...................................................................................... 87

7.3 LAND USE DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS .................................................................................................. 90

7.4 PARKING NORMS ................................................................................................................................................ 96

Chapter-VIII ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 97

8.0 FACADE CONTROL MEASURES ........................................................................................................................ 97

8.1 DESIGN CONCEPTS AND PROPORTIONS OF BUILDING ELEMENTS ..................................................... 97

8.1.1 LAND SLOPE AND CONTOURS ......................................................................................................................... 98

8.1.2 LANDFORMS AND GEOGRAPHICAL CHARACTER OF SOIL ...................................................................... 98

8.1.3 IMPACT ON ENVIRONMENT ............................................................................................................................ 98

8.1.4 ENERGY EFFICIENT PLANNING ..................................................................................................................... 98

8.1.5 ROOFS..................................................................................................................................................................... 98

8.1.6 CHIMNEYS ............................................................................................................................................................. 99

8.1.7 WALL FINISHES AND FOUNDATIONS ............................................................................................................ 99

8.1.8 COLOURS ............................................................................................................................................................. 100


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8.1.9 WINDOW SHAPES AND GLAZING OF OPENINGS ..................................................................................... 100

8.1.10 ENTRY AREAS ..................................................................................................................................................... 100

8.1.11 OUTDOOR ELEMENTS/LANDSCAPE AND STREETSCAPE....................................................................... 101

8.1.12 SIGNAGE.............................................................................................................................................................. 102

8.1.13 NIGHT LIGHTING ............................................................................................................................................ 102

8.1.14 SCREENING AND ENCLOSURE OF SERVICE AREAS ................................................................................. 102

8.1.15 EXTERNAL SPACES ........................................................................................................................................... 102

8.1.16 PARKING ............................................................................................................................................................. 102

8.1.17 GARBAGE ............................................................................................................................................................ 103

8.1.18 PUBLIC OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES AND SPACES ............................................................................................. 103

Annexure-A ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 104

INCOMPATIBLE USES TO BE SHIFTED ........................................................................................................................... 104

Annexure-B ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 105

LOCAL AREA OF PAHALGAM DEVELOPEMNT AUTHORITY .................................................................................... 105

Annexure -C ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 106

MEANINGS & DEFINITIONS ............................................................................................................................................. 106

Annexure-D ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 110

EXSITING LANDUSE PLAN PAHALGAM-2013 ................................................................................................................ 110

Annexure-E ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 110

LANDUSE ZONING PLAN .................................................................................................................................................. 110

Annexure-F ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 111

FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PLAN OF PAHALGAM MARKET AREA ............................................................................. 111


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SECTION – A

(MASTER PLAN FINDINGS AND PROPOSALS)


Town Planning Organization Kashmir Page 1

Chapter-I

1.0 MASTER PLAN RATIONALE AND BACKGROUND

1.1 INTRODUCTION

From the scrutiny of documents, it appears that the first planning effort was made during 1940s, the last decade of Monarchy in

Jammu and Kashmir. A Town Planning Scheme was published on July 15, 1943 under Jammu and Kashmir Town Planning Act 1997.

The Town Planning Scheme for Pahalgam was prepared initially under the supervision of Mr. Killer who was a Town Planner. Sir

Gopalswami Iyyanger then Prime Minister took special interest in Pahalgam development ordering that the buildings in the open valley

should not be allowed. The people who purchased land in the open valley for the construction purposes were proposed to be given

land in exchange in the forest fringe and on gentle slopes and a circuit road was proposed to be constructed around the Valley. Mr

Killer laid out the plots but plots were dislocated by the Forest Motor Road hence Mr. D. N. Dhar, the Town Planner was deputed by

the Government for the laying out the plots.

Second known effort was made wayback in 1971 when State engaged the services of Mr. T. J. Manickam and Associates for the

preparation of comprehensive Eastern Regional Plan including the Master Plan for Pahalgam. The plan became the basis for Action

Plan later adopted by the Government for implementation. The limits were confined to bowl from Sarabal Nallah to Sadaw Padav and

notified under Town Planning Act. Resort limits were subsequently notified under J&K Development Act 1970 and approved vide

SRO 251-UD of 1977 dated 7.11.1977.

In the year 1984,Town Planning Organisation, Kashmir (TPOK) was entrusted with the responsibility of preparing the Master Plan of

Pahalgam for which the boundaries of PDA Local Area were extended to Veersaran in the South and Aru in the North-West vide

SRO 185 dated 15.5.1985. The draft scheme was submitted to Govt. after incorporating the suggestions invited from general public. A

screening committee was constituted by Pahalgam Development Authority which asked for the recasting of the Master Plan on the

recommendation of the Director of Ecology and Environment. The Master Plan was revised and submitted in November 1989 but the

available records indicate that the Master Plan was not approved.



This was followed by another effort culminating in the submission of the Greater Pahalgam Master Plan 2005-2025. The Greater

Pahalgam Master Plan-2025 which is presently under review has been found at fault on many grounds. Apart from basic planning

errors, the document lacked in vision and sensitivity among planners otherwise required for such a fragile area. The following issues

necessitated the Revision of Master Plan, Pahalgam-2025:

1. Contents of PIL: OWP (PIL) No. 484/2010 – Pahalgam Peoples Welfare Organization V/s State & Others.

Areas like Reinzpal, Bradhaji, Manzimpora and portions of Ganeshbal where people have been living for generations

have been deliberately ignored and shown ―Green Belt‖ and thus depriving the local population of the basic rights to live,

construct and repairs;

Chanahaji virgin lush green area shown permissible for development;

Selective patches/parcels of land belonging to a particular group of people made permissible for development;

Mirpathri (Sub-zone B) near Mandlana and Sub-zone C (Shikargah) have been shown permissible contravening the J&K

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978;

2. Recommendations of Expert Committee:

As per the report prepared by the Expert Committee constituted by the Division Bench of the Honourable High Court on 5th

May, 2011, the Master Plan Pahalgam – 2025 besides having inadequate map data is in violation of:

The Jammu & Kashmir Wildlife (Protection) Act-1978; The Jammu & Kashmir Forest Act-1987 (1930 AD); The Jammu & Kashmir Forest (Conservation) Act 1997; The Environment Protection Act 1986 Wildlife Act;

Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution Act, 1974.

―Therefore, Committee Members seriously objected to the lack of application of the sensitivity of this very important task

entrusted to the Planners‖. The Committee highlighted various deficiencies, anomalies, violations and shortcomings in the

current Master Plan for the pursuance and consideration of the Honourable High Court.



Major Recommendations of the Committee:

Proposed development in the Master Plan Pahalgam – 2025 across Sheshnag stream and foothills is detrimental for the

ecology and biodiversity of the area with adverse effect on forest ecosystem;

The entire area on the left bank of Sheshnag stream and surrounding forests from Sub-Zone A-14 to Sadhu Padav A-1

to be designated as Green i.e. non-permissible area.

Influx of pilgrims to Holy Amarnath Cave not mitigated;

Existing village settlements ignored and declared Green prohibiting development and repair works which is against the

objective of the Master Plan.

Various landuses/land cover (LULC) categories not properly distinguishable/distinctive, hence not properly delineated.

Carrying capacity in conflict with proposals contained in the Master Plan Report (descriptive part).

Present Master Plan Pahalgam – 2025 lacks emphasis on parameters related to the development of Pahalgam as an Eco-

Resort.

Master Plan to focus on local economic development through participatory planning process rather than devoiding

local population from its benefits.

3. Findings of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) – University of Kashmir:

In view of the discrepancies in the LULC, the Government of Jammu & Kashmir entrusted the job of conducting EIA to the

Centre for Research and Development, University of Kashmir in October, 2010. The EIA report submitted by the University

among other aspects highlighted major loopholes in the Greater Pahalgam Master Plan -2025 recommending that the Master

Plan be revisited. The report reads that the Revised Master Plan be prepared after identifying the development areas correctly

through proper geo-referencing and satellite imaging. It further recommends that during the preparation of Revised Master Plan

, the following deficiencies and lacunae in the current Master Plan be given due consideration:

Sub-zones B5, B7, B8, C12, C13, C14, C16, D3, D4, E4 & E5 of the Planning Division- I, cannot be used for any

infrastructure development;



Existing tourist accommodation at Pahalgam is in excess of the average tourist carrying capacity;

An efficient Integrated Solid Waste Management (ISWM) needs to be put in place which is totally missing in current

Master Plan ;

No construction activity to be allowed on slopes more than 30o;

Incorporate necessary steps to maximize the utilization of already available infrastructure to minimize the need for new

constructions;

Encourage local rural population to harvest the benefits from economic development and become key players in tourist

related development.

4. Directions from Honourable High Court:

The Hon‘ble High Court taking notes of the comments/response filed by the State vide Order dated: 17.09.2012 directed as under:

―According to the status report before amendment of the Master Plan incorporating suggestions and changes

made by the Expert Committee appointed by this court has to be put to the General Public by publication of

notification in official Gazette and due notice in the newspapers. Some of the proposals and changes which are

likely to be reflected in the Master Plan have been disclosed in the status report. There is statutory obligation of

the State to follow the procedure provided for amendment of the existing Master Plan. All the learned counsels

appearing on either side have agreed that such course has to be followed. Accordingly Mr. Chashoo, Ld. Addl.

Advocate Generate has prayed that the period of three months be given to finalize the final Master Plan as

modified. It would include inviting the objections from the General Public consideration of reports of the

Expert Committee including that of the University of Kashmir who has been assigned the job of conducting

EIA and incorporating such objections which in the opinion of the State are awaiting for being incorporated in

the final draft Master Plan which is to be submitted to the State Government…………‖



1.2 TOWARDS REVISED MASTER PLAN PAHALGAM-2032

Approach & Methodology:

In view of the court directions, the state government convened a Cabinet meeting in which presentation was made on the proposed

revision of Greater Pahalgam Master Plan -2025 by Commissioner/Secretary to Government, Tourism & Culture Department and

Chief Town Planner, Town Planning Organisation Kashmir. Government entrusted the job of revising the greater Pahalgam Master

Plan -2025 to Town Planning Organisation Kashmir in 2013 vide Government Order No: 555 –TSM of 2012 dated: 29-11-2012. The

objective of revising the Master Plan is to incorporate the recommendations of the Expert Committee and those put forth in the EIA

report of University of Kashmir on their merit basis. However, while revisiting the Master Plan, Town Planning Organisation Kashmir

evolved the methodology to:

To create baseline situation by conducting relevant physical and socio-economic surveys in order to factor in the changes that

have taken place over a period of time;

To address the incongruities in the landuse by updating it to the ground realities;

To address the concerns of all stakeholders with special consideration for the local communities;

To propose the landuse which is best suited to the area based on suitability/sensitivity analysis;

To mitigate the impact of tourist and pilgrim influx in the area;

To promote sustainable development in Pahalgam without further affecting its ecology and environment.

The Master Plan therefore, has to address all the issues stated ut supra to achieve a sustainable balance between ecological health of the

area and the various social, economic and recreational uses to which the Pahalgam has been traditionally put to.

In order to revise the Master Plan, data is the first and foremost requirement. It is the quality and the quantity of data, which decides

not only the methodology and the strategy to be adopted, but also the border conditions under which the plan is evolved. The data

available with various agencies /organizations like Tourism Department, PDA, MC Pahalgam, JKTDC, Revenue, Forest and Wildlife

Departments has been collected and examined to identify gaps in crucial areas as contemplated in the Master Plan Pahalgam-2025. The

data was also scanned to make the Revised Master Plan more responsive and relevant in approach and content. Attempt was made to

fill up these gaps to the extent possible within the limited time stipulated for the preparation of Master Plan. Besides, Remote sensing



(RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies were also used to integrate different data sets collected from various

platforms. Remote sensing data in the form of satellite imageries in digital format was used to prepare the landuse map which was

subsequently updated in the field by conducting landuse survey by a team of qualified professionals. The entire database was then put

to rigorous analytical study to forge synergies before evolving Proposed Landuse Plan (PLUP) and devising policies in the Master Plan.

The landuse plan is based on the Sensitivity Analysis carried out on a set of parameters like slope, vegetation, natural drainage, first

order streams, wildlife areas, demarcated forests etc.

1.3 LOCAL AREA OF PAHALGAM DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

With the constitution of Pahalgam Development Authority in August 1978, the Government initially notified its Local Area vide SRO

No: 444 of 1978 dated 30.08.1978 comprising the village settlements of Pahalgam, Laripora and Nunwan commonly known as the

Pahalgam Bowl. Subsequently the Local Area limits were re-delineated from time to time in a series of Notifications issued vide SRO

No: 277 of 1984 dated 22.06.1984, SRO No: 191 of 1989 dated 15.05.1989 and SRO No: 366 of 2011 dated 15.12. 2011to

accommodate the village settlements of Botkote (partly), Lidroo, Mamal, Aru, Mondlan, Virsaran (partly), Khelan, Gogran and Freslan.

Due to unabated mushrooming of hotels and Country Guest Houses downstream Lidroo/Langanbal, the Government of Jammu &

Kashmir again felt the need of further extending the Local Area limits of PDA up to Ganishpora. Accordingly, the Government vide

SRO No: 258 dated 16.05.2013 notified following areas and declared them as part of the extended Local Area of PDA:

i. Movura ii. Veersaran (partly) iii. Yanner iv. Serchan v. Gujran Batkote vi. Batkote vii. Ganishpora viii. Hardukichroo ix. Amad Wagrd (partly)

Note: The Local Area of Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) along with Khasra details notified from time to time by the Government of

Jammu & Kashmir has been placed as Annexure-B of this report.



Chapter-II

2.0 DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

A socio-economic survey of the area was carried out to get an insight into the socio-economic dimensions of the area and its human capital. Analysis of data helped in evolving strategies for future expansion of settlements, local economic development, provision of infrastructure etc.

2.1 SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS

2.2.1 POPULATION OF LOCAL AREA

Socio-economic analysis is necessary to get an insight into the social characteristics and the level of economic empowerment of local

population. In the wake of constraints including limited available time, manpower and resources, and the size of area, it was not

possible to carry out the primary surveys to cover all aspects of socio-economic dynamics. As such, the secondary data collected from

different sources (Census of India 2001 & 2011 and MC-P) was relied upon to assess the socio-economic dynamics of the area. Based

on our estimates, population of PDA Local Area is projected from 31,500 in 2011 to around 59,000 by 2032i. Apart from town area,

there are sixteen villages falling within the Local Area limits of PDA having total population of 23,200 souls (while population of MC

area as per Census 2011 is around 8200). As per statistics, population of Local Area PDA has increased annually @ 3.5% from 2001 to

2011 while as the household formation rate during the same period has been around 7%. The increased number of households is

directly correlated with the increased housing demand and consequently more loss of fragile land to development activities. As per the

Revised Master Plan estimates, @80PPH gross density, the area requirement for development purposes projected for the horizon year

2032 is estimated around 700 hectares. Similarly for the residential purposes, the requirement is projected to around 325 hectares

@170 PPH for village areas and 225 PPH for urban areas. Given these parameters, the Pahalgam area has to withstand huge

population pressure much beyond its threshold carrying capacity. There is no denying the fact that Pahalgam has gone beyond its

saturation limit in terms of physical growth and human populace. In the absence of a sustained planning effort, the area may become

highly vulnerable to any natural catastrophe. It therefore, warrants a conscious effort on the part of planners, administrators and

politicians to plan, regulate and develop Pahalgam within its capacity without compromising its sustainability.



Base Year and Projected Population of Pahalgam Local Area

The development of Pahalgam as a sustainable tourist destination is recognised as a major challenge ahead which needs to be

addressed scientifically. The Master Plan accordingly outlines a coherent policy aiming at the sustainable development of village

settlements from their physical and socio-economic standpoint. However, the first step in this direction will be the preparation of

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(NAC)

Pop_2001 0 1096 779 898 1458 1827 936 2670 766 444 348 801 409 740 1142 1177 1726 6066

Pop_2011 0 1480 1052 1212 1968 2466 1264 3605 1034 599 470 1081 552 999 1542 1589 2330 8189

Pop_2021 0 1997 1420 1637 2657 3330 1706 4866 1396 809 634 1460 745 1349 2081 2145 3146 11055

Pop_2032 0 2697 1917 2209 3587 4495 2303 6569 1885 1092 856 1971 1006 1821 2810 2896 4247 15146

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micro-plans within the purview of this Master Plan. Micro-plans shall be prepared on the advocacy approach respecting the interests of

the locals clearly spelling out the broad landuse, the density and bulk norms as well as the index of landuse intensity for each village.

However, within the scope of this Master Plan, it is proposed to allow residential development in village areas as provided in Section

4.4 of this report.

2.2.2 ECONOMIC BASE

The micro details of the workforce are an indicator of the level of economic development and index of employment. With the

Workforce Participation Rate (WFPR) of main workers being just 21%ii, the area has 63% non-working population.iiiAs against 69%

non-working population in urban area, the non-workers constitute around 60%of total population in rural areas of PDA. It may be

noted that the rate of employment among urban females is 2% against that of 6% among rural females which may be attributed to the

greater participation of rural females in agriculture sector and lack of job opportunities for females in the urban area. Classification of

the workers into primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors shows that almost 55% of the working population is engaged in service

sector which comprises government employees and the people engaged in tourist activity. The dominance of tertiary sector is because

of the engagement of the people with tourism and declining landholdings. About 41% of the working population of PDA area is

engaged in agriculture and allied sectors. Apart from MC area where about 3% of the workforce is engaged in primary sector, Aru and

Botkote are other settlements respectively with 13% and 9% of their workers engaged in primary sector. The secondary sector is

insignificant in the region with only 4% of the working population engaged in small scale household industries.

The local people in Pahalgam area are primarily dependent on tourism and allied activities for their livelihood. Therefore, the

development of tourism shall provide major economic platform resulting in significant structural changes in the workforce of the

region. Tourism planning and development has to be promoted as ‗Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS).‘ Rather than believing that

growth of GDP will automatically lead to trickledown effects, the Master Plan emphasizes focused and directed

cooperative/community efforts for inclusive growth through ecotourism, public-private and public-public partnerships in tourism

investment and development. Skill development of locals especially in hospitality and hotel management has to be the focus of the

effort. The local youth shall be encouraged to take short and long term technical courses provided by ITI‘s and Polytechnics

discouraging the youth from entering to the low paid business of Ponies and Street vendors. Also the local youth should be

encouraged by providing reservation for the skilled/unskilled manpower in every hotel at Pahalgam for employment. Two initiatives



at the local level—one by an NGO providing training to the local females in the manufacturing of tribal art and craft and another in

the manufacturing of cheese at Khellen and supplying it to the local market in Pahalgam—are two examples which can be replicated

for increasing the share of secondary sector employment without compromising the ecology of the area.

Among important activities which will have far reaching impact on the economic empowerment of the locals is the development of

horticulture (walnut) and livestock especially sheep rearing. Both the sectors need to be diversified and incentivized to absorb a

sizeable proportion of workforce during horizon period. In the presence of a readily available market at the local level, a small scale

industrial unit for processing the products obtained from horticulture and livestock is proposed to be established near Ashmuqam or

Srigufwara outside planning limits. Fisheries, Dairy, Poultry Farms etc need to be developed with the help of JKEDI and the local

youth in the villages of Lidroo, Mondlana, Aru, Mammal and Ganeshbal. A sheep breeding centre is also proposed as per feasibility of

site conditions in the area to promote sheep rearing in the region. The area provides enormous scope for the development of livestock

provided effective measures are taken up by the concerned agencies. It is envisaged to organize the livestock (sheep rearing) sector

and awareness about the importance and available incentives in this sector is disseminated among the locals.

The Master Plan recognizes agri-tourism or horticulture tourism as an important economic activity in this area which will lessen the

burden on main Pahalgam for accommodation and at the same time create direct interface between tourists and the locals. The agri-

tourism or horticulture tourism can be promoted in nearby villages of Srigufwara, Saler, Khellen, Ladi, Veersaran, Dahwatoo etc

through tented accommodation, home-stays or paying Country Guest Houses on Bread-&-Breakfast model. This will also provide

opportunities to the locals to directly sell their products to the tourists at reasonably fair rates by avoiding intermediaries. Therefore,

the basic strategy for economic empowerment of the locals adopted in the Revised Master Plan is to take tourists to the doorsteps of

the locals both for accommodation and purchase of local products at relatively cheaper rates. This will instill a sense of confidence

among the tourists about the area and its people. Such a practice in the long run will open up numerous options for the promotion of

sustainable tourism (ecotourism) in the area which can be replicated as a Sustainable Tourism Development Model for the state as a whole.

It is therefore, recommended that Tourism & Culture Department J&K shall seek professional services from experienced firms in the

preparation of guidelines for sustainable tourism (ecotourism) as sated ut-supra.



Chapter-III

3.0 TOURIST FLOW AND DEMAND FORECAST ANALYSIS

3.1 STATE TOURISM SCENARIO

The snow-capped mountains, gushing streams, vast stretches of lush green forests, wildlife, international golf course and salubrious

climate are the main attractions in Pahalgam. Equally important is pastoral land, character and life style of local inhabitants which

render it a fit destination for promotion of eco-tourism in the area. For adventure lovers, Pahalgam has endless challenges to offer in

terms of rafting, mountaineering, rock climbing etc. Pahalgam tourist resort has assumed additional importance as it stands en-route to

Shree Amarnath Cave which receives lakhs of devotees every year. The important potential tourist destinations in Pahalgam are

Baisaran, Aru, Chandanwari, Mammal, Betaab Valley, Lidderwat, Kalahoi glacier, Tsar and Mansar lakes and Astanmarg.iv

3.2 TOURIST FLOW AND DEMAND FORECAST

Pahalgam is one of the few tourist destinations which receive major share of tourist flow in Kashmir region. According to EIA Report,

Pahalgam receives more than 70% of the total tourist flow of the Valley. It may be noted that Pahalgam has major incidence of

domestic and local tourists while foreign tourists constitute an insignificant proportion (less than 2%) of total tourist flow. In 2011,

around 7.05 lac tourists visited Pahalgam excluding 6.35 lac Yatrisv who also visited the area during pilgrimage season. As per EIA

Report, about 3/5th of tourists excluding Yatris visiting Pahalgam in 2011 constituted the locals. The large influx of tourists during last

decade led to a large-scale development of tourist infrastructure in Pahalgam in the form of huts, hotels, Country Guest Houses and

other manifestations of tourist use developed by government and private investors. Though there are large variations in the monthly

tourist arrivals with more than 80% recorded during the three months of May, June and July mainly due to Amarnath pilgrimage

conducted during this period.vi According to data collected, more than 8 lac tourists visited Pahalgam during these three months in

2011. Around 25% tourists have been recorded as Double-Visit-Tourists (DVT) both in case of leisure tourists and pilgrim tourists. It

has been reported in the EIA that the average stay of a tourist at Pahalgam is 2.14 days against 6.3 days at the state level. However, as

per the primary survey conducted by Town Planning Organization (K) in 2013, about 80% domestic (national) tourists have an average

halt of more than one day with 40% tourists staying more than two days. For assessment of bed capacity, an average 15% of local



tourists are assumed to stay overnight at

Pahalgam. Besides, 2% foreign tourists are

assumed to stay for more than one day at

Pahalgam.

On the other hand, the threshold carrying capacity of

Pahalgam area as per the EIA Report prepared by

the University of Kashmir is 4300 tourists per day

(for 44 ha recreational area with minimum area

required for recreation taken as 20 sq. mtr. per

tourist). As per the report each year during June–

August period Pahalgam experiences far-exceeding

user densities of 107–364 user/ha/day against 98

users/ha/day which is much beyond the tolerance

limit. As per the data provided to this office,

twelve lac touristsvii visited Pahalgam last year. In

other words, Pahalgam was visited by around 11, 000 tourists/pilgrims per day during peak season. Each year Amarnath Yatra is being

conducted from the fourth week of June at least for two months (55 days) with about sixty percent pilgrims visiting the Cave via

Pahalgam. The increasing rush of Yatris during peak season further adds to the user density in the area.viii But interestingly, the peak

accommodation demand in Pahalgam reflected by the primary survey conducted by TPO(K) in 2013of more than 150 hotels, plunges

down during Yatra period. However, the profile shows remarkable increase in the tourist season which is discernible from the

widening of polynomial curve (with a sharp slump during Yatra period). Besides severe environmental implications, Amarnath Yatra

according to local entrepreneurs has also other negative overtones on local business except for paltry gains to pony wallas which is

evident from figure given above.

0

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Tourist Seasons

Peak Tourist Accomodation Profile



Scenario-I:

The forecast of tourist flow has been used as a policy input with the contribution of the destination expected to remain

constant at 70% up to the horizon year 2032.

As provided in the Twenty (20) Year Perspective Plan For Sustainable Development of Tourism in J&K prepared by M/s Santek

Consultants Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi for Ministry of Tourism GoI, the Valley can sustain a maximum of 20 lac tourists by 2020. However,

as per the estimates of this office, the Valley can sustain 2.5 million tourists provided adequate infrastructure is developed. For

assessing the tourism infrastructure especially bed capacity at Pahalgam, a ceiling of 2.5 million tourists is adopted in this Master Plan.

The proportion of Pahalgam bound tourists as per EIA is calculated at 1.75 million (@70% tourists. It has also been found that 80%

tourists visit the area during May, June and July each year. Therefore, the average monthly tourist inflow in each of these months is

projected at about 4,65,000. This indicates a cumulative peak demand of 8500 beds per day by 2032. As per EIA, there were

2907 rooms available at Pahalgam in 2011 having bed capacity of 5763 with 3/4th of the beds being available in hotels only. The room

occupancy in Pahalgam shows considerable periodic variation in different seasons of a year. It is highest in the month of June and July

and decreases significantly after October up to May. During winter months (Nov-Mar), the room occupancy decreases even below

10% for almost all categories of hotels.

Scenario-II:

Assuming total tourist flow to the State will rise to 2.5 million with the percentage of Pahalgam bound tourists being 50%

keeping other factors constant.

Using the same methodology as spelt out in Scenario-1, the peak bed capacity demand for Pahalgam under Scenario-II works out to

be 6,100 beds per day by 2032.

Scenario-III:

Keeping other variables constant and assuming that the tourist flow to Pahalgam remains constant at 70% of the total

tourist flow (3.0 million) of the State during the horizon period.



Using the same methodology as spelt out in Scenario-1, the peak bed capacity demand for Pahalgam works out to be 10,200 beds per

day by 2032.

Scenario-IV:

With other variables keeping constant presumed under Scenario-III, assuming that the tourist flow to Pahalgam gets

decreased to 50% of the total tourist flow (3.0 million) of the State during the horizon period.

Using the same methodology as spelt out in Scenario-1, the peak bed capacity demand for Pahalgam works out to be 7,300 beds per

day by 2032.

As per the data collected by TPO(K) in 2013, the present bed supply is precisely 7,000 beds. As per the tourist forecast scenarios

adopted above, it is implied that additional bed supply of 1500 and 3200 respectively will be required under Scenario I and Scenario III

provided tourist flow increases as per assumptions made above. In the case of tourist projections made under scenario II and scenario

IV, the existing bed supply-demand gap is found either quite minimal or positive.

As mentioned earlier in this report, the available bed accommodation at Pahalgam exceeds the demand except for one – two months

(June and July)ix. For purposes of this Master Plan, it would be advisable to adopt a rational approach without compromising with the

limited available resources of the area. The Master Plan proposes to initially upgrade the existing tourist infrastructure followed by

provision of deficit accommodation as per the phasing plan in line with the Five Years Plans given belowx:

Five Year Plan Scenario-I Scenario-III

12th Five Year Plan 200 beds 500 beds






Chapter-IV

4.0 PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS

4.1 GUIDING PRINCIPLES

1. Economically sustainable structure of Pahalgam Development Authority following the best practices model of self-

sustainability;

2. Internalise the environmental costs for all kinds of commercial activities including hotels, restaurants, golf course skiing etc.

3. Incentivise the adherence to building permits and discourage violations by blacklisting the unscrupulous applicants, and

cancelling their building permits at all destinations including Srinagar;

4. Proposals based on the eco-zonation of local area and the land suitability analysis;

5. Continuously monitor the environmental impacts to all sensitive natural resources of the region;

6. Exclusion of violators from extension of future leases auctions in the State;

7. Reduce the burden on local bodies by permitting qualified personnel to self-certify building plans. Self-certification and other

recommendations would be meaningful and effective only when there is strong enforcement and zero tolerance of violations.

4.2 PLANNING CONCEPT

The planning concept for Pahalgam Master Plan-2032 is based on the following facts:

1. Pahalgam, besides being an important tourist destination is also a transit base camp for Yatris en-route to Shri Amarnathji

Shrine;

2. Existence of geomorphologic features amid steep Himalayan mountains;

3. Extent of natural vegetation like forests and wildlife existing in the area;

4. Natural ravines passing through the Pahalgam main bowl;

5. A typical valley character of the area;

6. Extent and nature of existing growth in the area;

7. Being an abode of shepherds, the preservation of local culture and economic empowerment of the communities; etc.



Since the basic objective adopted in the Pahalgam Master Plan-2032 is to develop Pahalgam as a ―Sustainable Tourist Destination‖,

accordingly, the major factors which need to be taken care of include the following:

I. segregation of pilgrim tourism from leisure tourism;

II. regulation of tourist flow and expansion of local population as per the carrying capacity of the area;

III. restoration of Lidder river to its past glory;

IV. preservation of forest and wildlife areas;

V. growth to be scaled to suitability of the terrain; and

VI. improving the ecological footprint of the area.

In the light of the said factors and the considerations spelt out above, any tourism management and planning effort adopted for the area

shall be formulated on environmentally sustainable approach. The unique mountain ecosystem coupled with ecological and cultural

attributes make Pahalgam a favourite tourist destination in the Kashmir region. The Pahalgam Master Plan therefore, has its primary

focus on:

i. segregation of the Yatris from other tourists;

ii. creating pony free zones and clear regulations for the pony owners;

iii. improving the aesthetics of the bowl;

iv. bypassing the vehicular traffic off the main market area and developing it as a pedestrian precinct;

v. shifting of incompatible activity areas like bus stand, defense, pony and taxi stands along the Pahalgam-Chandanwari Road;

vi. river front restoration and development; and

vii. façade improvement of the Pahalgam main market area etc.

To sum up ―the Master Plan revision has been dwelled upon the recognition of three different but interdependent activities at three geographical levels segregated over space.‖ As such the Master Plan recognizes following three types of activities:

1. Amarnath Yatra which during peak season contributes almost 50% towards congestion factor with serious environmental implications;

2. Leisure tourism; and



3. The resultant economic activities and their dispersal in the area

Based on these considerations, the Master Plan proposes segregation of these activities at three territorial levels as follows:

1. a Yatra Route along the western side of the bowl from Mammal bridge to upper Laripora near Renzpall; 2. existing Circuit Road to be developed as a Tourist Corridor and village Nunwan/Ganeshbal to be developed from Tourism-cum-

Heritage point of view; and 3. development of Pahalgam main road from Nunwan up to Sadhu Padav as a Mixed Activity Corridor comprising inter alia retail

and general business.

4.3 SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS

In all hilly and ecologically fragile regions, land suitability analysis is the primary criterion used for the allocation of different uses on

terra ferma using the grade of slope, forest cover, plantation, water bodies, soil type, natural drainage, agricultural productivity of land

etc. Since no major variations are found in soil cover and productivity of cultivable land, as such suitability has been carried out taking

into account the grade, natural drainage, land cover and plantation of the area. It is firmly believed that the policy of land use based on

suitability studies forms an essential part of the landuse planning which should enable the Pahalgam Development Authority to

regulate the construction work. All major studies discussed in earlier chapters were based on the suitability analysis with the exception

of the Master Plan-2032.

Sensitivity Analysis is a scientific technique to categorize the areas as per their sustainability and fragility. The basic objective of

carrying out sensitivity analysis is to evolve an ecologically and environmentally sustainable landuse model for the Pahalgam tourist

area. The Pahalgam Local Area was divided into various micro-zones differentiated by tangible physical boundaries. Following

parameters were used to carry out the sensitivity analysis:

Slope/gradient;

Proximity to water stream;

Forest Cover;

Wildlife and Biodiversity;

Prime Agriculture/Horticulture Areas



These parameters were assigned values on a scale of 1 - 10 points to categorize the areas as follows:

Extremely Sensitive Areas (>7);

Highly Sensitive Areas (>4 but <7;

Moderately Sensitive Areas (<4).

Ranking of variables for Sensitivity analysis

No. Attribute Ranks

1. Wildlife Sanctuary/ Biosphere Reserve

Core Area 2

Periphery 1

2. Forest Land/Green Cover 2

Dominantly Green 1

Sparsely Green 0.5

3.

Proximity to River:

Upto 200 m

200 – 400 m

More than 400 m

2 1 0.5

4.

Slope:

0 – 5

5 – 15

15 – 25

> 25

0.5 1 1.5 2

5. Agricultural Land

Dominantly Agricultural 2

Sparsely Agriculture 1

Total Ranks 10



Excluding the wildlife, forest and the areas under water streams, the sensitivity analysis carried out reflects that 28% area is

characterized as highly – extremely sensitive area while 72% is moderately sensitive area. For purposes of this Master Plan, the area

rating less than 04 on the ranking scale has been designated as Developable. According to EIA, the available accommodation exceeds

the existing carrying capacity of Pahalgam. However, as per the calculations made in this Master Plan, the potential threshold carrying

capacity of Pahalgam is calculated at 10, 000 provided the leisure area of 104 hectares is properly developed.

4.4 LANDUSE POLICY FOR THE REGION

Given the existing scale of development in the area, there is minimum scope left for further increase in the intensity of development.

Therefore, the broader strategy of the Master Plan is based on the up-gradation of the existing infrastructure, regulatory mechanism,

removing landuse anomalies, mitigating the impact of developmental activities, harmonizing the growth of the existing settlements, and

upgrading the functional status of the facilities already existing in the area. The Master Plan also asserts that concerted and co-

ordinated implementation measures based on the principles of land suitability analysis will ensure proper and planned development of

this tourist destination.

Under the landuse policy for the area as envisaged in this Master Plan, development involving any building activity has been confined

to the ‗Prohibitive Threshold‟ from Sarbal at Circuit Road intersection on both sides of Lidder river and beyond its confluence point

towards Mandlana and Freslan villages (Refer PLUP). However, as recommended by the Committee, the area from Rangward Laripora

village upto the intersection of Chandanwari - Rangward Road at Hotel Mahraja Palace towards hillside is made permissible for

tourism and other development use for proprietary lands at suitable sites only by drawing an offset on the basis of 25% slope from the

PMGSY Road. Downstream Sarbal Bridge upto Ashmuqam village, there is no bar on the type of development provided it is in

conformity with the proposals of this master plan and micro-plans to be made there-under. Following policy measures are envisaged

which shall be read in continuation with the proposals envisaged under 7.2 (a & b)—

Sensitivity Analysis Map-Pahalgam Local Area



i. ―Notwithstanding other conditions/provisions contained in this Master Plan, in existing village settlements except Bradhajji falling beyond this threshold line ‘huts, guest and paying guest houses besides residential for the benefit of locals’ shall be permitted with density and bulk regulations ". The future expansion of village abadi areas for residential, tourism and other activities is restricted to 15-20% of the non-agricultural areas like Banjri Kadeem. Maidani, Lubroo, etc. which will be reflected in the Zonal Plans. Also in Village Zones, only 10% of the developed area of a particular Village Zone is permitted for the expansion of tourism infrastructure. In case of Bradhajji village, the landuse as recommended by the Committee is restricted to Residential with the provision of basic amenities only limited to existing development. No future expansion of Bradhajji settlement is permitted in this Master Plan as recommended by the Committee. Besides, the Committee



has recommended the establishment of an STP outside the village settlement to prevent disposal of untreated sewage into river. The Committee has also recommended that subject to availability of funds, the Government/PDA may rehabilitate the families presently residing in the village elsewhere. It shall be made mandatory while issuing the permission that only single permission is issued to the owner for the construction of a residential house. However, there shall be no bar on granting permission sought for the reconstruction or repairs of existing houses using vernacular material and facade.

ii. In case of structures existing beyond the proposed Threshold Line and having valid building permission orders, repairs/renovation, or reconstruction as per approved site/building plan can be considered by the concerned authority without changing the footprint and bulk.

iii. In case of structures existing beyond the proposed Threshold Line that have been raised without any permission and/or where violations to approved norms are more than the permissible limits of this Master Plan , repairs/renovation shall not be considered by the concerned authority as a deterrent to erring beneficiaries.

iv. In all village settlements falling beyond the Threshold Line and pending formulation of the detailed Micro/Zonal-Plans, permissions for any building activity involving additions, alterations, demolitions, repairs, renovations, restorations and reconstruction of existing buildings can be considered provided these do not involve any change in the footprint and bulk; and in case of new construction, proposals shall be scrutinized viz-à-viz the provisions of J&K Land/Revenue Act for granting permission.

v. As part of the landuse policy, all village settlements notified after the approval of the master plan 2005-25 shall be allowed to grow as per Micro-Plans. The Micro-Plans shall provide for the restoration of denuded areas, conservation of water bodies, management of catchment areas, watershed management, preservation of prime agricultural areas, local economic development, ecology and environment, and shall lay down stipulations for the maximum expansion of village settlements and detailed DCRs.Till Micro-Plans are prepared, the residential development shall be governed by the landuse policy of this Master Plan.

vi. As recommended by the Committee, all commercial and residential structures raised in the village settlements before the issuance of Notification SRO 258 of 2013 dated 16-05-2013 shall be examined and considered after seeking NOC from PDA in the light of Master Plan provisions. And the structures raised illegally after the issuance of Notification SRO 258 of 2013 dated 16-05-2013 shall be dealt as per the law including the serving of notices for demolition by the owners themselves or by the PDA at the cost and risk of owners.



4.4.1 LANDUSE POLICY FOR MANZIMPORA of AND YANNER-MOWURA BELT

Pahalgam on the whole is an environmentally fragile tourist destination. However, over a period of time it has been unsustainably

exploited for the development of tourism infrastructure. Diversion of forests to non-forest use, cutting of slopes, felling of trees,

encroachment of river banks and beds, constricted river banks through crate bunds, blocking natural drainage courses for construction

purposes etc are some of the environmental concerns observed in Pahalgam. Under the same annals, Manzimpora—a small hamlet

which has evolved amid river bed sandwiched between two branches of Sheshnag Nallah—is classified as a highly sensitive zone as per

the criteria adopted in this Master Plan. Because of huge uphill catchment, discharge and velocity of Sheshnag Nallah, the area is rated

as highly vulnerable to natural calamity like flash floods. The area warrants conservative approach for its physical development. It is

accordingly envisaged in the Master Plan that—

Only transitory development in terms of tentage, log huts, mud houses on stilts etc as per the design approved by PDA shall be considered.

Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) construction/structures shall be strictly banned.

A Redevelopment Scheme based on EIA study shall be prepared in the first instance for the planned development of this area; however, existing structure shall be retained till the formulation of said Scheme.

Besides, the Committee recommended that adequate environment friendly flash flood protection measures shall be provided to the area and an STP be established for sewage treatment before its disposal into the river. The Committee also recommended that soft infrastructure on the pattern of existing Island Resort be encouraged in the Manzimpora area.

Till the formulation of Redevelopment Scheme for Manzimpora, it is proposed that development shall be governed by height, density and bulk regulations as per minimum norms. It is therefore; proposed that height in no case shall be more than 18 feet, maximum ground coverage not exceeding 5% and the size of a single unit shall not be more than 500 sft.

Similarly, the Movura-Yanner Belt which has witnessed large-scale proliferation of huts, hotels and Guest Houses during last couple

of years is exceptionally sensitive and vulnerable. The development has taken place without following any building code and landuse

guidelines. The development along this belt across both banks of river Lidder is ―incompatible and against the landuse policy of this Master

Plan.” It was found during discussions with revenue officials that the entire belt actually forms part of the river bed as the river has

changed its course over a period of time. The authorities are apprehensive of reverse drift in the river course which may cause large-

scale loss to life and property during flash floods. Seeing the scale of such development and possible eventuality, the Government of



J&K extended the Local Area limits of PDA up to Ganispora near Ashmuqam for planning as well as regulating the development by

adopting a scientific approach. The Honourable High Court of J&K also issued interim orders to ban any kind of physical

development within 200 metres of river bank from Langanbal bridge downstream. Given these facts, it is proposed that—

No development shall be permitted in the area up to at least 200 metres from the bank of Lidder Nallah. As recommended by the Committee, the 200 metre buffer along the Lidder river shall be made applicable downstream Langanbal and the structures falling within the buffer which have come up with proper permission of BOCA with clear title verification shall be retained till EIA is done and Rehabilitation Plan for the area is framed.

Development beyond 200 metres shall be governed by the Landuse Policy of this Master Plan which will be detailed out in the Zonal Development Plans.

Lateral expanse of Lidder River be clearly demarcated as per the records of Revenue and Irrigation and Flood Control Departments to avoid encroachment.

An EIA by a professionally competent firm be carried out for this area before any policy decision is taken by the Government.

4.4.2 LANDUSE POLICY FOR POTENTIAL TOURIST PLACES

Pahalgam region has a number of potential tourist destinations falling within the demarcated forest and wildlife sanctuary. Among

these places, mention can be made of Baisaran, Veersaran, Aru, Chandanwari, Shehnag-Panjtarni area etc. All these places provide

ample scope for the development of adventure tourism. The Master Plan envisages to develop Aru as a Lavender Village.xi Given the

expanse and area of these spots on the one hand and the scale of Master Plan on the other, it was not possible to accommodate the

entire area in a single landuse plan. Instead separate micro-plans will be prepared for these destinations (duly integrated with the

policies of this master). These plans will have focus on the promotion of ecotourism as per relevant acts, support infrastructure,

landscape design, building design, and development regulation rules. For the development of any infrastructure, EIA shall be laid

down as a pre-requisite condition. Till formulation of these micro-plans, “notwithstanding contained anything in this Master Plan, no

development shall be allowed by the Government/concerned authority.”



4.4.3 PROPOSED LANDUSE-2032

Based on the planning principles and the landuse policy adopted for this region, the proposed landuse of the Planning Area for the

horizon year-2032 is reflective of the clear emphasis on tourism as the key sector for ensuring the economic development of the area.

Allocation of land for activities like ecotourism is the stepping stone for ensuring that the benefits of tourism reach to all sections of

the society by their active participation. This is not possible without capacity building of the local communities in the tourism sector

and as such proposals have been made to ensure active participation of the local people. In the proposed Landuse Plan-2032, land

allocations have been made for tourist accommodation, recreational open spaces, public and semi-public use, parking, community

shops, craft centers etc in the commercial sector besides forest and agricultural farm land. The micro details of the land allocations for

the horizon year are given in the Landuse Plan-2032:

Proposed Landuse Break-up of the Planning Area

Landuse-2013 Proposed Landuse-2032

S. No. Landuse Area in

Hectares %age of

Developed Area Area in Hectares

%age of Developed Area

1 Tourism (Huts & Resorts) 62.16 11.40 73.36 12.84

2 Government Hutment 21.07 3.86 21.07 3.69

3 High-end Camping etc 0.00 0.00 6.81 1.19

4 Residential 225.64 41.39 233.00 40.78

5 Commercial & Tourism 3.48 0.64 3.41 0.60

6 Public/Semi-Public 39.68 7.28 33.47 5.86

7 Defence 11.50 2.11 0.00 0.00

8 Leisure/Recreational (Parks & Gardens)

88.33 16.20 104.00 18.20

9 Road Network 90.00 16.51 90.12 15.77

10 Parking 3.29 0.60 6.10 1.07

Total Developed Area 545.14 100.00 571.34 100.00



11 Forest 4020.00 37.86 4401.00 41.55

12 Wildlife 2732.00 25.73 2725.00 25.73

13 Golf Course 55.28 0.52 55.28 0.52

14 Vacant/Open Spaces 19.28 0.18 0.00 0.00

15 Agriculture 3191.87 30.06 2734.40 25.28

16 Water Streams 599.00 5.64 599.00 5.66

17 Plantation 0.00 0.00 76.56 0.72

Total Developed Area 10617.43 100.00 10591.244 100.00

Total Planning Area 11162.57 - -

4.5 TOURIST INFRASTRUCTURE

The Master Plan recognises tourism as an important driver in the local economy and accordingly following tourist infrastructure policy

spelt out in below section is envisaged to make Pahalgam a sustainable tourist destination.

4.5.1 TOURIST ACCOMMODATION

As stated above, tourism is an important driver in the local economy but it is disheartening to see local communities living in appalling

condition. It has been seen that the benefits of tourism have not gone to the locals except for marginal employment. This can be

attributed to following reasons:

a. The development model adopted here is not community driven and non-inclusive in nature;

b. The past planning efforts through Master Plans seem to have been heavily focused on landuse rather than suggesting policies

for local economic development;

c. The failure of Local Authority to evolve any mechanism to safeguard the interests and customary rights of the local people;

d. The community based tourism practices are completely missing as a result of which entire tourism business other than pony is

owned by non-locals.



Notwithstanding the provisions contained in this Master Plan, it is envisaged that tourism development shall be used as a ‗Poverty

Reduction Strategy‘ with primary focus on local economic development. The missing link between tourism development and

community development needs to be cemented through inclusive and participatory growth. The primary interests of the locals need to

be respected. Any expenditure incurred in the area shall be on equitable basis for tourism and community development. In fact the

cost shall be internalizedxii and beneficiaries driving major benefits from tourism need to be reasonably taxed. It has been observed that

the roads/links connecting hotels are taken up for preferential treatment while the internal lanes and drains in all village settlements

remain unattended.

The basic objective of this Master Plan is to ‗economically empower the local people and improve their living condition‘. It would be

highly appropriate to promote ‗community based ecotourism in Pahalgam. Therefore, the Master Plan proposes that ―the Existing Village

Settlements Falling (Partly or Full) Within The Threshold Limits As Defined In This Master Plan are Designated As Tourist-Cum-Heritage Villages

Subject To Fulfillment Of The Norms Provided Therein. Besides, the village settlements of Botkote, Veersaran and Pachhwar--downstream of Langanbal--are

earmarked for tourism infrastructure.” xiii As per the PLUP-2032, in such settlements besides residential use, huts/Country Guest

Houses/paying Guest Houses are also permitted as per applicable norms. As per recommendation of the Committee, the area between

Chandanwari Road and Rangward Road (PMGSY Road) except for the gorge is permitted for tourism and other development use up

to 25% slope from the Pahalgam-Chandanwari Road subject to the condition that the necessary angle of Repose necessitated by

vertical gradient of the area is properly maintained by the applicant for the stability of the area.;

In order to benefit the locals, the Master Plan proposes the development of tourist resorts (other than designated tourism areas) in

such village settlements provided minimum plot area prescribed under DCRs is available; ―the beneficiaries if desired can pool their small land

parcels to meet the minimum plot area requirement for the development of tourist resorts also‖. In order to create a sustainable balance between ecology and

infrastructure, an equal quantum of built up area to be brought under riparian vegetation shall be made an obligatory condition in all non-residential

permissions in entire Local Area. The Development Authority shall not issue further permissions till basic infrastructure like water supply,

sewerage system, proper drainage etc is laid down. The Master Plan makes it obligatory for the concerned agencies including PDA to

create the basic infrastructure in the first two years of the Master Plan implementation. However, in case of the settlements where

micro-plans have not been prepared, tourist accommodation of ―Bed-&-Breakfast Type‖ other than residential can only be considered

under the same roof.



As discussed ut supra, there hardly exists any ‗supply–demand gap‘ vis-à-vis tourist accommodation though a particular category of

accommodation may not be available. It was reflected through stakeholder consultations that the area is devoid of any high-end tourist

accommodation and ecotourism. Therefore, the Master Plan primarily proposes the up-gradation of existing infrastructure and

developing the high-end Tourist Resorts and Eco-Tourist Resorts to cater to the potential demand during the horizon period of next

twenty years. It has also been envisaged to diversify the accommodation as follows:

I. Huts in the form of clusters around common spaces and facilities like restaurants, clubs, shopping, souvenir and memento

shops;

II. Budget accommodation in the form of dormitories;

III. Resort type high-end accommodation;

IV. Tented accommodation/camping site;

V. Country Guest Houses and paying guest accommodation in the village settlements; etc. However, as recommended by the Committee, construction of guest house by various departments shall be discouraged as it will put unnecessary burden the fragile ecology of the area.

As a policy adopted in this Master Plan, the existing Circuit Road is proposed to be developed as a Tourist Infrastructure Corridor. The Master Plan proposes to develop high-end tourist resorts with density and bulk limitations along the proposed corridor. It is proposed that the said Tourist Corridor shall provide accommodation to high-end tourists which for the reasons collected from the field is presently missing in Pahalgam. Apart from high-end tourist accommodation, the Master Plan also envisages to create a mixed landuse of residential-cum-tourist infrastructure in village settlements as discussed earlier.

In addition, based on the instructions of Honourable Chief Minster issued during the field visit of Pahalgam, following are

incorporated in the Master Plan:

i. Development of high-end tourist resort contiguous to the Golf Course on the lower side of the upper Laripora Road. ii. Development of a cluster Hutment with common facilities within the Golf Course along its periphery. iii. Assess the feasibility for the development of Cable Car Mamal to Baisaran on immediate and long term basis and proposals to

that effect be incorporated in the Master Plan. iv. The diversification of the tourist infrastructure by way of promoting adventure tourism through winter sports like skiing, ice

hockey, motor biking and trekking to high altitude lakes like Tulian Lake etc.xiv



The hills or mountainous terrain of Pahalgam has generally remained unexplored from Adventure Tourism point of view. Many

adventure enthusiasts venture into uphill treks and need to be facilitated by providing basic facilities like tents, kits, First Aid, trainers,

guides etc. The Master Plan envisages separate trekking routes (other than the one used by Yatris) for adventure lovers to high altitude

lakes, Kalhoi glacier and other places in the Himalayas. It also proposes to induct local youth in the form of guides/trainers/helpers to

promote adventure tourism activities to be promoted with the induction of local youth in the form of, etc.

4.5.2 TOURISM INFRASTRUCTURE IN PROTECTED AREAS

Tourism infrastructure development options need to be explored in Protected Areas like Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary spread over an

area of 425 sq. km. The State Government has already initiated in 2007 ecotourism practices in some areas particularly Hemis National

Park and Tsomoriri Wetland in Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. Home stays have been created in the villages of Hemis National Park

and Tsomoriri Wetland. In 2009, a component on ecotourism was also included in the Five Year Plan of Overa-Aru and Rajparian

(Daksum) Wildlife Sanctuaries for the project to be financed under Compensatory Afforestation and Management Planning Authority

(CAMPA). However, the ecotourism exists as a component of management plan rather than an organized activity as the Ecotourism

Zones arenot identified and people‘s participation in the programme is marginal. The Wildlife Department has already sought

assistance from M/s Jungle Lodges and Resorts to identify potential sites for ecotourism. These sites which stand identified include

Hokersar Wetland, Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, Gulmarg Wildlife Sanctuary, Hemis National Park and Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary,

Jasrota Wildlife Sanctuary and Surinsar-Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary. It may be noted that some of these Protected Areas are overlapping

functional jurisdiction with Local Development Authorities e.g.; Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Sonamarg etcxv. These Authorities are also in

the process of developing infrastructure in the periphery of these Wildlife Sanctuaries. Therefore, the need of the hour is to create an

interface between Wildlife Department and these authorities to appropriately plan the Ecotourism Zones in the Protected Areas.

However, within the ambit of this Master Plan , homestays, camping, tentage, Bread-&-Breakfast Type of tourist infrastructure can be considered in such

areas with the involvement of local population strictly under the provisions of J&K Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978 and the specific regulations for ecotourism

framed thereof.



Also the Evaluation Committee has also recommended for the development of Aru Village as a sustainable Model Hill Station with a

separate set of byelaws. The Committee also recommended that the inner village on the north and west sides shall be given expansion

to accommodate future growth of the settlement, and no development including mud houses shall be allowed in the lower Aru beyond

Old Mandlana up to Aru bridge instead the area shall be declared as a Leisure Zone. The Committee has recommended that the areas

with dense plantation shall not be allowed for any kind of development in ZDPs and instead be designated as Green areas under

plantation. The Committee is also of the opinion that the Zonal Development Plans shall be prepared to regulate the development in

village settlements of Mamal, Khellen, Veersaran (partly), Mondlana, Aru etc. It may be noted that perusal of the SRO-154 of 2007, as

highlighted by the Committee reveals that only the forest compartments up to the forest boundary have been included in the Wildlife

Sanctuary and the revenue villages from Aru to Overa have not been incorporated within the Sanctuary. However, the Master Plan

envisages that any development in these areas shall be regulated as per the ZDPs and in accordance with the Wildlife (Protection) Act

and the existing developments shall be dealt with as per the

landuse policy of this Master Plan. It is also envisaged as

recommended by the Committee that no construction is allowed

in Sekipathri.

4.6 ETHNIC BAZAAR/CRAFT CENTRES

Since tourism is an important sector for livelihood in the area, it

is felt that apart from conventional retail shops, there is a demand

for ethnic/craft bazaars for showcasing the local craft. As such an

organized bazaar comprising a shopping street and an arcade (Refer PLUP)

has been proposed behind Pahalgam main market which would require

shifting of Sweepers‟ Colony. The Master Plan proposes to shift the colony to

existing Sweepers‟ colony at Laripora and rehabilitate the affected families by adding another floor to the existing single storey residential quarters. In order

to ensure that local people get economic benefits as a consequence of the tourist activity in the region, craft sale centresneed to be

developed in the proposed bazaar (Refer 3-D Pan of Market Area). These centres shall be run by local cooperatives on the terms and

conditions decided in agreement with the Local Authority. This will also act as an exchange and interaction Centre between the local

Sweepers' Colony proposed to be shifted



population and the tourists. The proposed bazaar shall also accommodate the shopkeepers affected by Master Plan proposals near the

Mosque (near PHC). Being a tourist destination of international status, a detailed Façade Improvement Plan of Pahalgam Main Market

has been prepared by Town Planning Organization Kashmir and submitted to PDA for execution to redeem and refurbish the

aesthetical image of the market area. The market area is envisaged to be developed as a pedestrian precinct by developing a parallel

corridor along the eastern bank of Lidder River (Refer Market Plan showing Road Infrastructure). The face-lifting of Pahalgam Main

Market as per the plan prepared by CTP(K) and the construction of eco-friendly pedestrian underpasses/FoBs to integrate various

parks within the Bowl shall be the top priority for redeeming Pahalgam as ace tourist destination.xvi



3-D Plan of Pahalgam Market Area



Proposed Cross Section of Pahalgam main Road



Pahalgam Market Plan showing Street Furnitureand Design



4.7 LEISURE (PARKS, GARDENS AND ARBORETUMS)

Parks and gardens have historically been the major attraction of the tourist destinations all over the Valley. The Master Plan-2032

envisages the development of a series organised open spaces interconnected by eco-friendly and aesthetically in tune with the

surroundings pedestrian underpasses or pedestrian FoBs, endowment areas, riparian zones and multi-purpose recreational areas along

the Lidder River and its tributaries uphill side etc. About 104.0 hectares are proposed in the Master Plan towards organised recreational

open spaces. Pahalgam main bowl is envisaged to be the corner stone in the landscape design of the area. The areas presently occupied

by Army and under Railways across Lidder are proposed to be retrieved by Pahalgam Development Authority and accordingly made

part of the existing bowl. The existing uses are proposed to be shifted to Chandanwari and Lidroo downstream respectively. Similarly,

the bowl is proposed to be extended up to existing Amusement Park which will require acquisition of land with some built up

property. It is proposed to work out an Action Plan for this area in consultation with TPO (K) in which the feasibility of existing

structures to be run as restaurants or otherwise is established. However, the remaining area shall be acquired for extending the limits of

Pahalgam bowl for creating a series of interconnected open spaces across Lidder River. The Evaluation Committee constituted by the

Government has also recommended for the acquisition of the area and the owners of the existing hotels shall be allowed to run their

hotel(s) till rehabilitated by the Government. The Committee is also of the opinion in such cases and cases of similar nature, only

minor repairs shall be allowed for this pro-tem period without any change in the existing footprint, façade and bulk.

As recommended by the Committee, the existing Sarbal garbage disposal site and Zabikhud near village Ganesbal are envisaged to be

developed as Environment/Eco-Parks. The Committee also recommended the development of Sarbal Shrine by way of face-lifting

and landscaping of its surrounding area. The Master Plan lays special emphasis on the development of walkways and cycle tracks along

the Lidder river, Shesnag Nallah and Aru Nallah as an element of tourist leisure. The PDA shall hire the services of an eminent

professional Landscape Architect for the unique landscape design of the area by using the natural landscape elements like water, rocks,

sand, etc. As directed by the Honourable Chief Minister during his field tour of Pahalgam, extension to the existing Amusement

Parkxvii is proposed and the park shall be connected with the adjoining parks by way of pedestrian underpasses or pedestrian ramps.

The potential of Lidder River from water sports and other activities point of view needs to be exploited judiciously after ensuring

proper EIA for the activity. The Master Plan also envisages, as recommended by the committee constituted by the Government for

the scrutiny of objections and suggestion to assess the feasibility of River Rafting from Aru to Sarbal through a professional consultant.



As per the recommendation of the Committee, the Master Plan proposes to restore the Anglers‘ Path from Bobby Hut to Panchayat

along the Sheshnag Nallah. It is also recommended to develop view-points in and around Pahalgam especially along the Sheshnag and

Aru Nallah, Lidder river upto Ashmuqam etc.

As recommended by the Committee, the temporary infrastructure created by the Power Development Department near the existing

Mini-Power House along the Lidder River near Nunwan is proposed to be shifted to its south and the same area be developed as a

Leisure Park interconnected with the bowl.

4.8 TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION

Efficient, effective and environment friendly transport system is vital for the sustainability of a region. The failure of current transport

practices to deliver socio-economic and environmental friendly solutions has reinforced the case for sustainable provision of transport

services in our towns and cities. The transportation systems must meet the mobility needs of the residents, businesses and tourists

visiting the area with minimum externalities. It is felt that the transportation programs must reduce the negative impacts of air

pollution, noise and congestion for which following measures are suggested:

Ashmuqam to be developed as a transit point to Pahalgam with the necessary infrastructure proposed to be developed in the

first phase of the plan period;

Up-gradation of existing bus stand at Ashmuqam and introduction of shuttle service of low floor hybrid buses (Public

Transport Induction) up to Pahalgam Resort to be started on priority;

Off street parking lot at Ashmuqam near the existing Bus stand incentivising the use of Smart Ride system/Shuttle Service

over personalized vehicle use;

Encourage public transport as more than 87% traffic flow is contributed by personalised mode onlyxviii;

Entry fee for private vehicles as per economic/environmental cost to the destination;

Differential parking fee based on parking location within or outside local area and the duration of parking;

Alternatives of sustainable transport shall be promoted to safeguard the natural beauty of Pahalgam bowl;



Low floor diesel hybrid/CNG buses should be hired

by the department of Tourism and shuttle services

from main towns including Anantnag, Pulwama,

Shopian, Srinagar etc shall be operated. Frequency of

public transport should be such that people shall

prefer this mode of transport. The services can be

operated in PPP mode.

Pedestrian movement in the bowl should be given

priority by designing the footpaths, trails, foot-over-

bridges based on landscape design along every road;

Pedestrian-Vehicular conflicts should be minimized

by segregating the motorized lanes and pedestrian

paths;

Separate bicycle lanes are proposed along the

Pahalgam-Chandanwari Road from Hospital gate to Laripora junction and Laripora to ‗the proposed Bio-diversity Park

replacing the existing Amusement Park‘ along the Golf Course Road;

Solar cars/battery operated vehicles should be given free entry at the toll posts and only half of the parking fee should be

collected;

Local youth/drivers should be encouraged by tourism department by providing subsidized loan system for the purchase of

solar /battery cars. These cars should be used on the concept of ‗radio taxi system‘ by the tourism department in co-ordination

with local youth;

Mountain biking should be promoted along the Aru road, Chandanwari Road and Baisaran Link;

Entry of personalized /commercial vehicles should be strictly restricted to the Aru valley as it is a wildlife area. Entry through

low floor bio-fuel mini buses (noise reduced vehicles) to be operated by the tourism department should be introduced and

shuttle services from Pahalgam to Aru valley should be provided accordingly.



Pedestrian trail along the river Lidder bank via club park, Pahalgam village, lower Laripora, upper Laripora , Renzpal , Bradhaji

upto Chanahaji connecting Hangun (Betaab) Vadi should be developed along with the river without raising concrete

embankment. The trail shall be developed with Shomhali Stone pavement as used inside Lavender Park.

Helipad located in Pahalgam for the conveyance of Amarnath Yatris needs to be shifted downstream Ganshipora as it disturbs

the serenity and the wildlife of the area by frequent takeoff and landing of helicopters in the area. It is also proposed that the

operation of helicopter service in the area be restricted to the extent possible so that the environmental threat posed by its

operation in high altitude areas is minimized.

Feasibility of a railway line as an alternative parallel

mass transportation mode up to Ganeshpora be assessed and shall be put to EIA before its execution in the area.

It is also proposed to extend 4-lane KP Road up to Ashmuqam ONLY beyond which the terrain is very hostile and can cause

severe environmental degradation. In other words, there shall be ―No widening of roads beyond Ashmuqam till

Chandanwari and Aru except local streets of Pahalgam town but no way more than 10 metre‘.

Roadside amenities to be provided at Ganshipora and Yanner Tourist Park.

Source: Primary Survey in June 2013, TPO (K).

The Master Plan recognises improved connectivity as an important factor for giving impetus to the development of Pahalgam

region. As per the base year traffic volume characteristics shown in the table above, the KP road reflects a forced flow/jamming

Traffic Volume Characteristics

Day Direction Peak Hour Total PCU/Day Peak Hr/PCU V/C ratio

Saturday Anantnag to Pahalgam 10.00 A.M - 11.00 A.M 5926 803 0.89

Pahalgam to Anantnag 5.45 P.M -6.45 P.M 5144 997 1.11

Sunday Anantnag to Pahalgam 10.45 A.M - 11.45 A.M 5422 1356 1.51

Pahalgam to Anantnag 7.00 P.M - 8.00 P.M 7670 1489 1.65

Monday Anantnag to Pahalgam 10.45 A.M - 11.45 A.M 3503 463 0.51

Pahalgam to Anantnag 5.00 P.M - 6.00 P.M 3579 547 0.61

Accumulation of Buses in the Bus Yard along river bank



concentration on weekend during peak season. As a policy measure, it is envisaged to resort to traffic management measures rather

than widening the existing roads due to hostile and fragile terrain. As such induction of public transport in the form of shuttle

service from major towns of the Valley needs to be encouraged for improving the Level of Service (LoS) of the transport network

especially the KP Road. The Master Plan also proposes up-gradation and strengthening of regional linkages to a minimum two-lane

configuration (7.5 m c/w) with metalled shoulders (2.0 m wide) during the first half the horizon period. Following proposals are put

forth for improving the transportation network in the area:

1. For segregation of Yatra traffic during peak months, a Separate Parallel Corridor (having 10 M ROW) is proposed to be developed either from existing parking area on the left side of the Pahalgam Road near existing Nunwan Base Camp or as directed by the Hon‘ble Chief Minister in the meeting held on …………………. from Langanbal bridge connecting the Bijbehara-Pahalgam Road along the western bank of Lidder River upto Pahalgam-Aru Road across Aru Nallah near existing Amusement park after EIA;

2. To bypass the Pahalgam main market, another parallel access along the eastern bank of Lidder is proposed from Nunwan up to Poshwan Park. The road shall have a two-lane c/w configuration with adequate space for walkways along riverside. However, as recommended by the Committee, the proposed parallel link along the eastern bank of Lidder river be initially developed as a Walkway with same ROW under the riverfront development scheme;

3. The Circuit Road is also proposed to be developed to a two-lane configuration (7.5 m c/w) with paved shoulders to be used as cycle track/footpath by the locals and tourists;

4. Sarbal and the bridges on Sheshnag Nallah in Laripora village near Sadhu Padav acting as bottlenecks causing long snarls of

traffic jam are proposed to be widened to 2-lane configuration without further delay.

5. The Master Plan also proposes the up-gradation of internal connectivity including village roads, lanes and bye-lanes. As recommended by the Committee, the Siligam-Ganshipora Road and Amad Zoo-Grand Road are incorporated in the Master Plan for upgradation and widening after assessing their feasibility on ground.

6. The bus stop located at Sadhu Padav is proposed to be shifted to Freslan and the area reclaimed so be developed as a Landscaped Park;



7. Adequate area shall be made available at Nunwan after shifting the Base camp for the development of a Mini-Secretariat and bus terminal;

8. The Pahalgam Market area is proposed to be developed as ―Pedestrian Precinct‖ free of vehicular and pony movement;

9. In Pahalgam, parking is a major issue especially during peak season. Against huge supply-demand gap shown for the earmarked

parking lots which accounts for roughly around one-third of the total demand, the area witnesses excessive parking spillovers

along the main road. The following measures need to be taken on priority bases:

the existing parking area on left side of the Pahalgam Road near Nunwan Base camp is proposed to be developed as a

two-tier parking facility with green top to suit the environment;

Existing parking lot at Betaab Valley be restricted and used for official parking only and instead a separate two-tier

parking lot be developed at Freslan (Refer PLUP) having 100 ECS capacity;

Existing parking lot near proposed Bio-diversity Park shall be retained without further expansion.

On-street parking shall be completely banned to increase the effective c/w width of a road.

10. The existing link between Pahalgam Road and Golf Course Road is proposed to be made ‗ONE WAY‘ only;

11. For pony management, a detailed programme has been spelt out in Chapter-V.



Proposed ROW and Building Line of Some Major Roads

Sl. No.

Road Starting Point End Point Proposed ROW (M)

Proposed Building Line

1 Khanabal-Pahalgam Road Khanabal Ashmuqam 20 20

2 Khanabal-Pahalgam Road Ashmuqam Mamal Road (Near existing PHC)

12 15

3 Pahalgam-Chandanwari Road Mamal Road (Near existing PHC)

Sadhu Padav 18 12

4 Pahalgam-Chandanwari Road Sadhu Padav Chandanwari 10 12

5 Proposed Road along Eastern bank of Lidder

Mamal Road (Near existing PHC)

Lilinium Park near Gurudhwara

12 15

6 Proposed Road along Western bank of Lidder

Nunwan near Hydel Power Project

Lavender Park 10 12

7 Laripora Road along Western bank of Sheshnag Nallah

Lavender Park along Golf Course

Laripora (Kralpora) Intersection

10 15

8 Laripora Road along Western bank of Sheshnag Nallah

Laripora (Kralpora) Intersection

Sadhu Padav 10 15

9 Pahalgam-Aru Road Lavender Park Aru Village 7.5 10

10 Pahalgam-Mamal Road Mamal Road (Near existing PHC)

Mamal Village 7.5 10

11 Lidroo Link Road Entry Point Lidroo Village 7.5 10

12 Circuit Road Sarbal Bridge Laripora near KV School 10 12

13 Pahalgam-Bijbehara Road Langanbal Bridge Bijbehara 12 15

14 Laripora-Rangwad Road Hotel Mahraja Palace Intersection

Rangwad Village 7.5 10

15 Laripora-Kralpora Laripora Golf Course Boundary via Kralpora

7.5 10

For other roads not specifically mentioned here and where maximum road width is NOT MORE than 7.5m, the minimum building line measured from

the centre of the road shall not be less than „FRONT SETBACK MARGIN‟ as prescribed under these regulations. However, in case of roads not



specifically mentioned here and where maximum road width is not less than 7.5m, the minimum building line measured from the centre of the road shall not

be less than the building line of a similar category road xix under as prescribed under these

regulations above.

Note: These regulations are also subject to other Acts/Rules/Statutes/Govt.

Orders presently in vogue force or to be passed/issued separately in the

interest of public cause or else.

4.9 SANITATION PLAN

4.9.1 SOLIDWASTE MANAGEMENT

Tourist destinations like Pahalgam demand preventive measures for effective

sanitation and proper hygiene. As per the data provided by MC Pahalgam,

561.86 MT of solid waste are generated per month. The waste is manually collected from roadside due to the absence of municipal

waste bins. The door to door collection is also in place. The total

number of households and establishments covered under door to

door collection is 409. Out of 561.86 MT of waste generated in a

month, 102.36 MT (18%) is generated by households, 12 MT

collected from the street sweeping, 412.5 MT is generated by the

hotels and restaurants, 30 MT is generated by the markets, 2 MT by

the commercial establishments and 3 MT by other sources. It is

surprising to note that one-fourth of the hotels practice open

littering of waste either along roadside or outside their premises.

The Solid Waste is transported by the Lorries with three truckloads

of waste disposed off daily at Sarbal on the bank of a stream. The

practice of littering waste here needs to be stopped immediately as

Break-up of Solid-waste Generation



the site is close to freshwater stream. There is no segregation of

recyclable waste before the final disposal.

For waste management, the Master Plan proposes following measures:

The solid waste disposal shall be carried out as per the provisions

of the Municipal Solid Waste (Management and Handling) Rules,

2000 and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act,

1974. The local authorities shall draw up plans for the segregation

of solid wastes into biodegradable and non-biodegradable

components.

The biodegradable material may be recycled preferable through

composting or vermiculture and the inorganic material may be

disposed in an environmentally acceptable manner at the site

identified near Khullar village on the western bank of Lidder River. No burn ing or incineration of solid wastes shall be

permitted.

Reduction in the use of raw materials which will correspondingly decrease the production of waste;

Installation of wooden litter bins along roads, walkways and within parks and gardens at appropriate locations for proper

collection and subsequent disposal of the waste;

Strict ban on use of polythene within the Local Area;

Introduction of twin bin system at household level for segregation of biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste and

awareness among people about the type of waste and its economic value to be created;

A minimal sanitation charge to be levied on households/hoteliers on monthly basis;

A appropriate amount of sanitation fee to be collected from SASB for the upkeep of the area;

The concerned agencies like PMC and PDA shall be provided with latest machinery equipment like dumper placer, garbage

gobblers, tippers etc used for the collection and haulage of the waste material;

A Solid-waste Disposal at Sarbal along the Nallah



Development of civic sense among people through dissemination of information about the utility and repercussions of solid

waste;

The Master Plan stipulates that the concerned authority shall develop the necessary infrastructure for collection, storage, segregation,

transportation, processing, and disposal of solid waste directly or by engaging agencies or groups under Solid Waste Management Plan

to be prepared as per the policy of the State and Central Governments. The authority should work out the necessary modalities for

hiring the services of private parties preferably the locals for the upkeep and sanitation of the Planning Area for which PDA or MCP

will provide the necessary equipment to the private agency.

4.9.2 WATER SUPPLY AND SEWERAGE DISPOSAL

The major sources of drinking water in

Pahalgam are springs/Nallahs. These are:

Donipathri Nallah

Sarbal Nallah

Baisaran Spring

Renzpal Spring

Aru Nallah

Mamal Nallah

Hapatkhur Spring

Rangwad Nallah

Mandlana Spring

There are eight (08) water reservoirs; two

at Ganeshbal, two at Baisaran and one

each at Donipathri, Mamal, Rangward and Mandlana. There are four Filtration Plants having total capacity of 3.5 lac gallons:



Ganeshbal Treatment Plant- 1.0 lac gallons

Baisaran-1 Treatment Plant- 0.50 lac gallons

Baisaran-2 Treatment Plant- 1.0 lac gallons

Donipathri Treatment Plant- 1.0 lac

gallons

The mode of water supply is piped. There are 4658 registered connections; out of which 4395 are domestic (2895 in villages and 1500

in the town) while 263 are commercial connections. The future demand by 2032 has been projected at 28 lac gallons for domestic use

and 5.8 lac gallons for commercial use. As such it is proposed to periodically upgrade the existing infrastructure in terms of network,

filtration plants and supply. The Master Plan proposes to sufficiently tap the water from local sources for uninterrupted supply of

drinking water for both domestic and non-domestic purposes. Also as recommended by the Committee, the PHE department shall

prepare a DPR for the entire Local Area of PDA in a time bound manner for its early execution.

Due to sparse and spotty growth of the area, the Pahalgam tourist destination is comprehensively devoid of any wastewater disposal

and treatment system. In the absence of an organized sewerage system, the area is heavily dependent upon the country type latrine,

septic tank and soakage pit system. It is disheartening to note that 83% hotel establishments have closed sewer system while the rest

either open or no system attached with them. It has already been reflected in this report that even closed system (soakage pit) proves

detrimental to the life of standing trees and in fact is used a malice method to destroy the treesxx. Presently, a sewer network is being

laid down along Lidder River and a sewage treatment plant (STP) having capacity of 2 MLD has already been installed near Nunwan.

The Revised Master Plan -2032 proposes that an Action Plan for sewerage disposal be devised for the entire Local Area which inter alia

shall comprise the existing village settlements. It proposes that the Action Plan shall be prepared in the first phase of plan

implementation for the potential sewage load of 10 MLD with around 7.0 MLD for the town area onlyxxi. The plan has to be evaluated

against project indicators of capacity, condition and viability of the project. The economic viability of the provision of small FAB/SBR

and other treatment technologies for tourist infrastructure shall also be dealt with in the Action Plan. It also envisages that given the

topography of the area, spotty growth of settlements and the nature of development as proposed in the Revised Master Plan,

Decentralized Wastewater Treatment (DeWaT) System could be a more viable option for effective treatment of the sewerage produced

Existing Sewerage Network-2013



in the area. As such, as recommended by the Committee, the Master plan envisages assessing the feasibility to develop a mini-STP

outside each settlement or a group of settlements depending on the topography and sewage load. It is also proposed that:

i. For each Tourist Resort, provision of a Mini-Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) shall be made a compulsory condition in the permission granted to a

beneficiary‘.

ii. For any hotel/hutment with twenty or more than twenty bed rooms, the beneficiary shall be required to make provision of a separate STP as a

compulsory condition.

iii. PDA shall initiate legal action against the beneficiaries operating hotels beyond threshold capacity having failed to construct separate STPs within their

premises as required under the Policy of J&K State Pollution Control Board.

Note: These guidelines shall be subservient to Environment Protection Act, 1986 and Water (Prevention and Control

of Pollution) Act, 1974, J&KPCB guidelines and other relevant acts and the rules framed under these acts.

Equally important is the untreated or uncontrolled flow of wastewater directly into the Lidder River and its tributaries. The water

streams are being polluted carelessly by the visitors and the locals as well with the problem worsening during the Yatra period. In

mountain areas (especially Himalayas), religious tourists generate a great deal of waste. Tourists on expedition leave behind their

garbage and even camping equipment resulting in indiscriminate littering of waste materials, food stuff and even open defecation etc.

Such practices degrade the environment with all the detritus typical of the developing world, in remote areas that have few garbage

collection or disposal facilities.

The waste and filth gets washed down into streams during rains. All along the Yatra route, Yatris defecate in the open and litter around

large quantities of polythene and plastic bottles which are visible along the trek route. Locals have already stopped drinking water from

the river, believing it to be considerably polluted. The practice needs timely redress for which following measures are put forth:

I. Provision of community latrines with adequate treatment facilities in all village settlements.

II. All households to be covered under total sanitation campaign to avoid open defecation and use of dry latrines.

III. Natural drainage courses shall be kept undisturbed and free of any encumbrance/hindrance.



IV. Profuse plantation along denuded areas/patches of forests. As recommended by the Evaluation Committee, an Action Plan be

worked out by PDA, Forest and Social Forestry Departments together for the beautification of roads, river banks and open

areas by way of profuse planation.

V. Provision of community latrines with adequate treatment facilities for Yatris and complete ban shall be imposed on open

defecation in the area.

VI. The dumping-pits dug by the SASB for the collection of night soil shall be properly covered and the waste contained therein

shall be disposed off scientifically.

4.10 SOCIAL INFRASTRUCTURE

a) Health

It has been observed that Pahalgam is served by one number civil hospital (Primary Health Centre)—the only hospital that caters to

the needs of the population of the town and surrounding villages. With a capacity of 5 beds and additional of 10 beds for the yatra

period, the following facilities under the hospital are as follows:

X-ray

Basic laboratory inventory test

Ultrasonography

Dental section

Wide gap between demand and supply in terms of health facilities especially in bed capacity therefore, it is proposed that the existing

deficit shall be made up by regular augmentation during next twenty years as per the standard of 16 beds/10,000 population. The

Master Plan proposes that the existing Civil Hospital at Pahalgam be retained as such without further expansion and instead a 100 bed

hospital be developed near Lidroo along KP Road (Refer PLUP) with provision of more specialized services like Paediatrics, trauma,

orthopaedics, Obstetrics, General Surgery and Indoor facilities to sufferings of the local people, tourists and Yatris. The Master Plan

envisages 25 beds to be reserved for Maternity/Child-Care. State Health Department is contemplating a 50 bed hospital for which a

site has already been identified at Lidroo. It is envisaged that the said hospital shall later be upgraded to 100 bed hospital serving both

Yatris and the locals. Besides, the Master Plan also proposes up-gradation of existing dispensaries to sub-centres at village level.



b) Sheep & Animal Husbandry

For ensuring health cover to the livestock, it is proposed to upgrade the facilities at the Government Veterinary Hospital Pahalgam.

The hospital serves the coverage area from Langanbal to Chandanwadi and Aru with its main functions;

Providing health cover to livestock all the year round.

Disease control

Vaccination programmes

Deworming

Health cover for migratory livestock

c) Fire& Emergency

Pahalgam town and the surrounding villages within the radius of 30km are served by one number fire station with two fire brigades of

water capacity of 16000 litres per truck and 13 fire-fighters. There is one water storage tank built in the market area for water filling

during emergency. After recent fire accident that occurred in Freslan Village in 2012-13, it has raised concern on the safety issues

among masses on the service delivery of fire tenders to douse off the fire. The Master Plan accordingly proposes to upgrade the

existing fire station and ensure such facility within the radius of three km. However, the proper location and distribution of such

facilities will be shown in the Micro-Plans.

d) Distributive Facilities

There is one number LPG station present in Pahalgam with supply of 40 trucks (300 cylinders per truck) every month. It serves a

holding capacity of 37,000 consumers (domestic) and 1000 (commercial). Besides, there is one number petrol pump which serves the

population of Pahalgam town and surrounding areas. The facilities have to be upgraded and enhanced to meet the future demand of

60, 000 population and 10, 000 service population. However, the proper location and distribution of such facilities will be shown in

the Micro-Plans.



Chapter-V

5.0 ENVIRONMENT CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT PLAN

It shall be the duty of every citizen of India “to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife, and to have compassion

for living creatures”— Article 15A of the Constitution of India.

5.1 INTRODUCTION

Pahalgam is an ecologically fragile area comprising a number of micro-ecosystems. Towering mountains with steep gradient, lush

green forests, gushing water streams, wildlife and bio-reserve and pastoral lands together constitute the major ecosystem of Pahalgam

tourist resort. The Lidder Valley sprawling from Sarbal to Freslan across Lidder and Sheshnag streams is an important landform

constantly being acted upon by a series of physical and anthropogenic forces. The Valley is a gateway to high altitude lakes (Sheshnag)

and glaciers (Kolahai). As stated elsewhere in this report, 28% area in Pahalgam is characterized by Highly – Extremely Sensitive

topography. The area needs special consideration to mitigate the damages done and stop further impact caused by anthropogenic

activities. The strategy will be to keep these areas in natural state without disturbing their ecosystems. As a policy measure, various

aspects of the Master Plan proposals were studied and their impact on environmental components viz. land, water, forest, wildlife, air,

noise, etc have been assessed. The method involves analysis of ‗cause and effect relationship‘ between an activity and environmental

parameter. The major components of the environment studied are as follows:

1. Land;

2. Flora and Fauna (Forest and Wildlife);

3. Water and Air; and

4. Built-up Environment and Amarnath Yatra

5.2 LAND/TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT

Pahalgam has a very unique topography and landscape facing geo-environmental degradation through activities like deforestation, mass

wasting (soil erosion), slope instability, loss of arable land, unsystematic and unscientific township expansion, waste-garbage disposal,



loss of aesthetic value etc. The limited land resource and decreasing per capital holding among the locals is feared to be a major

challenge in the next fifty years. Given the present growth rate of population, Pahalgamxxii by 2050 will hardly have any land available

even for accommodating the local population in future. On the other hand, subsistence economy, seasonal employment, illiteracy,

poor health and hygiene and depletion of precious resources will bring new planning and economic challenges. Accordingly, the

Revised Master Plan Pahalgam-2032 envisages the following planning and development strategies aiming at to minimize the impact on

land environment:

i. The agriculture and horticulture areas existing in the area shall be preserved by arresting the proliferation of urban activities to

the extent possible through proper zoning and density & bulk regulations;

ii. No development whatsoever shall be permitted on an area having more than 20% slope as proposed in this Master Plan ;

iii. The expansion of village settlements shall be permitted in compact manner as per the Local Area or Micro-Plans;

iv. The PDA shall ensure phasing of non-residential (hotel, hut, Country Guest House, shop, etc) permissions strictly in line with

the proposals envisaged under section ―Phasing of Development‖. For this purpose, the PDA shall fix the number of beds to be

constructed each year as per the five yearly bed capacity requirement carried out in Chapter-III of this Master Plan.

v. To rationalize the foot print of built up area without going for new constructions under commercial use, it is proposed to initially

‗upgrade the functional status of existing assets‘ like hotels and Country Guest Houses on merit basis having sufficient area

available;

vi. To make Pahalgam a sustainable tourist destination and reducing the impact of construction on land, the Master Plan envisages

the development of Caravan sites and tented accommodation as proposed in the Landuse Plan-2032 including Chandanwari and

Aru;

vii. Extending tree cover outside forests to reduce pressure on natural forests for supply of forest produce.

viii. Checking denudation and soil erosion in catchments through integrated watershed management techniques and practices.

ix. Afforestation shall be carried out on all degraded and denuded lands within and outside forest areas. Besides, planting of trees along roads, rivers, streams and other available lands shall be carried out on priority bases.

x. Encouraging farm forestry and agro-forestry by providing quality growing stock and other technical inputs to farmers, and

developing market linkages for proper sale of their produce.



xi. The government should take adequate steps to

incentivize the promotion of livestock especially sheep

rearing in the area;

5.3 FLORA AND FAUNA (FOREST AND WILDLIFE)

Pahalgam is known for its lush green forests and wildlife

sanctuary. These two components are integral part of

Pahalgam tourist destination. Forests are a crucial

ecological resource responsible for preserving

biodiversity, maintaining soil fertility, regulating water

resources, sustaining economic activities and supporting

geochemical and climatologically cycles. Wild animals and

other habitants get enough protection from the solar heat,

temperature and the leaf cover formed on the earth gives

cooling effect to the earth. Pahalgam, one of the beautiful and famous tourist destinations of the Valley, having a share of more than

70% of the total tourist flow, is also facing the threat to its biological and ecological diversity. The so called beauty of Pahalgam hill

station is only due to these forests which form the green cover around the resort and gives it a definite character. On the other hand,

the pressure of land scarcity is increasing day by day giving rise to mala-fide practices on the part of land mafia. The urban sprawl of

Pahalgam town and greed for the construction of new hotels in violation of norms is a driving force behind the illegal felling of trees

threatening the micro environment of the area. Every year hundreds of green Deodar and Coniferous trees (considered as the King

heritage of Kashmir Forests) are cut down on the name of firewood to Amarnath shrine board xxiii instead of providing them

wind/snow fallen trees which are rotting along the banks of Sheshnag Nallah while moving towards Chandanwari.

Apart from collecting snow/wind fallen trees, the demand can be met by growing broad leaved species in the lower areas instead of

damaging the lush green forests clad with pine trees. Meanwhile firewood should be provided from the old stock available with the

department and exploitation of forests should be immediately stopped through severe punishments to the people involved.

Vandalisation of Green trees in Golf Course



Another concern for the increasing deforestation in Pahalgam resort has been the ‗plot exchange scheme‘ of the Government wherein

the affected families were allotted plots within forest areas along the Circuit road. It has been found that plots in lush green forest have

been allotted without considering its implications on the ecology and biodiversity of the area. Some beneficiaries have been

complaining that the exchange plots allotted by government in lieu of their proprietary land is of no use to them as the area is generally

designated as ‗Non-Permissible‘ in the subsequent Master Plans. Due to lack of co-ordination and contrary land records resulting out

of blurred lines of working between PDA, Wildlife and Forest Departments, the location of Exchange Plots distributed among the

affected families in Nunwan and surrounding area vide Government Order No: 60-C of 1943-44 in lieu of the land acquisition made

by the then Government could not be ascertained in the Landuse Plan. The State Government should address the issue so that the

systemic loopholes are sealed and the scope of grabbing the forest and state land by unscrupulous elements in connivance with some

field agencies is comprehensively squeezed.

Understanding the gravity of the matter, the Evaluation Committee held that the settlement of the area has already been done and

forwarded to the Forest Department for authentication. The matter needs to be settled with the Forest Department for proper

demarcation as per latest records. However, the Committee is of the opinion that the Govt. Order No: 60C of 1944 issued for

exchange of plots among the affected families in lieu of their proprietary land acquired by the government at Pahalgam is a genuine

order never changed or revoked by the subsequent governments. The exchange plots shown as demarcated forest is a matter of

updating forest records vis-à-vis revenue records after proper settlement. The committee recommends that without any prejudice, all

exchange plots other than those under dense plantation shall be made permissible in the Master Plan-2032. The Committee further

recommends that till the forest demarcation issue is settled with the concerned revenue authorities, following policy w.r.t. such plots

falling within the forest boundary as shown in the Master Plan Pahalgam-2032 may be adopted which shall be subsequently reflected in

the Zonal Plans:

a) In case of exchange plots with infrastructure already developed on them and where Revenue Department has issued clear cut NOC regarding its title verification, such plots may be retained a permissible in the Master Plan;

b) In case of exchange plots without any existing infrastructure and where Revenue Department has issued/will issue clear cut NOC regarding its title verification; and which are not under dense plantation, such plots may also be made permissible in the Master Plan for tourism or other development; and



c) In case of exchange plots/other without existing infrastructure and where Revenue Department ―has/hasn‘t‖ issued clear cut

NOC regarding the its title verification and in case such plots are under dense plantation, they shall ―not‖ be made permissible in the master plan instead be retained as part of the demarcated forest and those in possession of such plots may be rehabilitated at some other potentially suitable site especially in Lidroo or Laripora village on case-to-case basis.

Degradation of forest line due to human intervention adjoining Golf Course

The Government should address the issue once for all after proper reconciliation of forest and revenue records vis-à-vis the change of respective boundaries

through a high level committee with time-bound mandate. Any prospective change of boundary and further development thereof shall be reflected in the Zonal

Development Plans.

The continued recklessness of concerned departments and irresponsible behaviour of some unscrupulous hoteliers is giving rise to an

alarming environmental situation in the resort as the most sensitive areas of wildlife are being exposed in gross violation of the JK

Wildlife (Protection) Act-1978. Plates on following pages best illustrate how the green trees are being vandalised for grabbing more area.xxivThese

hotels have very high occupancy rates and act as major wastewater or sewage generation point sources. This sewage is dumped into the

soaking pits located amid lush green forests without any treatment which after some time through continuous anaerobic reactions

results in very toxic substances which percolate through ground pores as soil content and damages the precious forest species and

trees. These hotels also have very high green cover/asphalt ratio leading to the death of these trees. Presence of water around pine



trees is considered as one of the dangerous threats causing the slow death of this species. In the interest of JK Wildlife (Protection)

Act-1978, the following measures are proposed to be taken:

i. The lease granted to the owners involved in the vandalisation of trees shall not be extendable at the expiry of lease deed;

ii. Strict legal action warranted under the J&K Forest Act-1987 or JK Wildlife (Protection) Act-1978 shall be taken against the

person/beneficiary involved in the felling of trees or causing damages to the standing trees;



Vandalisation of Forests near Hotel Grand Mumtaz



iii. The lease holders involved in such activities or even violating the building permission norms shall be barred for further lease in

future from the state;

iv. The PDA shall not issue permission for non-residential constructions unless adequate sanitation (including wastewater and solid

waste) measures are available or have been taken by the applicant.



Decay of Trees in Nunwan Forest along the Circuit Road

v. The Committee has recommended that the extra area grabbed by such unscrupulous hoteliers be retrieved by the government after its demarcation by a team of officers of PDA and concerned Revenue Department.



Forest conservation and restoration is a very important strategy for halting biodiversity loss, mitigating climate change, and securing

the continued availability of essential products and resources. It is broadly recognized that local communities play an essential role in

forest conservation and restoration. ―When users are genuinely engaged in decisions regarding rules affecting their use, the likelihood

of them following the rules and monitoring others is much greater than when an authority simply imposes rules.‖ In fact, recent

researches across the globe have proved that areas conserved by indigenous people and local communities are less prone to forest loss

than formally protected areas. Where local users are excluded from forests or where their rights are compromised, conflicts arise

threatening the sustainability of forest management.

Conservation of forest cover and protection of wildlife have been accorded top priority in the Revised Master Plan. The forest and

wildlife boundaries provided by the concerned departments have been carefully drawn on the Proposed Landuse Plan for the

formulation of landuse policies without affecting the respective areas. Notwithstanding anything proposed in the Revised Master Plan,

the wildlife and forest areas have been designated as ―Restricted Zones‖ for their conservation as recommended by the Expert Court

Committee. Any activity in these areas shall be governed by the J&K Wildlife (Protection) Act 1978, J&K Forest 1987 and J&K Forest

(Conservation) Act 1997. This can be achieved through following policies:

Promote values of community integrity, solidarity, environmental awareness and care.

Respect and strengthen local, traditional knowledge, protect it against piracy and misuse.leisure

Provide special support to young people contributing to environment and provide assistance in technical aspects of

management.

Support local sustainable livelihood activities, ensuring that distribution of benefits is equitable and that any integration with the

market economy is environmentally appropriate and desired by the community.

Land records of Revenue Department shall be reconciled with Demarcation Record of Forest Department in a time bound

manner.

The system of forest demarcation shall be completely modernized and maintained in digital format on GIS platform.

Remote sensing technology using detection software shall be used for monitoring encroachments.

Wherever possible, inhabitants within wildlife areas shall be resettled on fringe areas with adequate compensation or

rehabilitation in the permissible areas as per the revised Master Plan.



Administrative and legal measures need to be taken to reclaim encroached forest land.

Reconsider the exchange plots allotted within lush green forests to the affected families along the Circuit road and provide

genuine allottees exchange plots in permissible areas after proper investigation as recommended by the Expert Committee.

Rehabilitation of degraded forests so as to optimize their productivity and restore their potential to provide ecosystem goods

and services on sustainable basis.

Poverty alleviation by meeting livelihood needs of forest dependent communities through sustainable supply of forest produce

by improving productivity of existing forests, and through forestry activities, schemes and programmes.

Extending tree cover outside forests to reduce pressure on natural forests for supply of forest produce.

Checking denudation and soil erosion in catchments through integrated watershed management techniques and practices.

Significant forest area is lost due to diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes. Proliferation of developmental activities

in forest areas also results in fragmentation of habitat which has an adverse effect on wildlife and plant biodiversity. Therefore,

diversion of forest land shall be regulated considering the diversion of forest land for non-forestry purposes as a last resort,

after exploring all other alternatives. Similarly, in order to compensate for the loss of forest area on account of diversion of

forest land for non-forestry purposes, other unutilized state lands appropriate for forestry landuse shall be brought under

compensatory afforestation.

Afforestation shall be carried out on all degraded and denuded lands within and outside forest areas. Besides, planting of trees along roads, rivers, streams, and other available lands shall be carried out on priority bases.

Encouraging farm forestry and agro-forestry by providing quality growing stock and other technical inputs to farmers, and

developing market linkages for proper sale of their produce.

5.4 AESTHETICS, VIOLATIONS AND DEVELOPMENT CONTROL REGULATIONS

Expert committee report cites a number of examples of the violators who have violated the Development Control Regulations

adversely affecting the ambience of one of the ace tourist destinations. These include the Hotel Woodstock in the main Pahalgam

Bazaar having constructed huge structures transcending the 30% Ground Coverage and height limitations in the process also

encroached the river front. Similarly Hotel Pine Spring and Laigoroo Guest House have been constructed on high slope terrain

vulnerable to disasters. Hotel Himalaya house on the right river bank of Sheshnag river is a violation of Section 83 of water



(Management and Regulation) Act 2010. The report also cites Hotel Grand Mumtaz having debarked and killed 100 trees. The Expert

Committee also cites the violation of the Forest Act in the construction of hotels and huts in the midst of forest in Zone C4 of Master

Plan-2025 adversely affecting the forest area and recommends the freezing of further construction in the area which has been

implemented in this Master Plan.

The Revised Master Plan proposes not only revised and simplifies Development Control Regulations but also recommend strict

adherence to these regulations for redeeming the lost aesthetics of the region. The revitalization of the region as an ace tourist

destination will need some tough guidelines including the polluter pays principle and internalizing the environmental and other costs

on the recommendations of the Expert Committee. The detailed guidelines have been given in the Section 6.3 of this report.

5.5 CONSERVATION OF THE HIGH ALTITUDE LAKES AND DOWNSLOPE WATER STREAMS

Water is not only the most vital requirement of all living

organisms but provides the habitat to a significant

proportion of the earth‘s biodiversity. Conservation and

management of the water bodies involves bringing together

a large array of stakeholders as it requires several actions to

be taken together. It is necessary to first assess the current

state of these water bodies in terms of their physical,

chemical, hydrological and biological characteristics.

It is beyond doubt that anthropogenic pressures caused

especially by tourists and Yatris in the area have increased

rapidly in recent decades. Apart from major changes in the

landuse in the catchments where natural vegetation is/was

cleared and urban and other non-conforming activities are

intensified, these activities (deforestation, agricultural, urban settlements, etc) result in increased amounts of sediments, nutrients and

toxic substances that enter the surface runoff. In addition, the catchment-based activities have been accompanied by encroachment,

Sheshnag Lake



sewage disposal etc. A major challenge is posed by two month long Yatra along high treks which generally remain snow covered during

the Yatra period.

All these activities result in the change of hydrological regimes, snow cover etc, which need to be scientifically regulated and constantly

monitored. Depending on the existing scale of physical development, the Master Plan among other measures suggested under section

5.5 proposes:

i. Development of riparian buffers as river front along all water bodies as proposed below to protect them from encroachment

and environmental pollution:

A) Major Streams

Chandanwari to Freslan (Govt. School) = 200 Mtr.

Freslan (Govt. School) Betaab Valley (Parking Lot) = 150 Mtr.

Betaab Valley (Parking Lot) to Sarbal Bridge = 30 Mtr.

Sarbal Bridge to Langalbal Bridge = 50 Mtr.

Langalbal Bridge to Aishmuqam = 200 Mtr.

Aru Nallah from Aru to Mandlana = 200 Mtr.

Aru Nallah from Mandlana to Pahalgam = 50 Mtr.

B) Main Tributaries of Sheshnag, Aru and Lidder Rivers

Freslan Nallah = 15 Mtr.

Athnadan Nallah = 30 Mtr.

Rangward Nallah near Mahraja Palace = 15 Mtr.

Mamal Nallah = 75 Mtr.

Bus Stand Nallah = 15 Mtr.

Sarbal Nallah = 15 Mtr.



Serchen Nallah = 15 Mtr.

Khellen Narbal = 15 Mtr.

Movura/Yanner Nallah = 200 Mtr.

Note: Buffers proposed along the streams for the area falling within the jurisdiction of Wildlife and Forest Departments

shall be subject to their own policies, acts and rules made there-under.

ii. The riverfront development especially of Lidder and Shehnag rivers should be carried out without any physical damage to the

existing natural landscape and strictly be done under the supervisor of professional Landscape Architect.

iii. It is strongly emphasized to stop the direct disposal of solid and other wastes into the Lidder River and other streams for which

proper sanitation measures need to be taken by the concerned agencies like MC-P and PDA. The Revised Master Plan proposes

that entire area or all structures shall be covered by proper sewerage network during the first two plan periods of the Master

Plan. The roadside disposal of solid waste should be completely forbidden in the area and anybody involved shall be penalized

and legal action warranted under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974 shall be initiated against the

offender.

iv. The Government should also establish a monitoring laboratory in the area to assess the quality of air, water, soil etc; for the

conservation these resources on scientific parameters.

v. Programmes upholding the essence of these water bodies in the environmental conservation and economic development of the

area shall be periodically held for awareness among masses.

5.6 BUILT UP ENVIRONMENT AND AMARNATH YATRA

5.6.1 BUILT UP AREA

As already discussed in this report, the Pahalgam Planning Area apart from town area consists of sixteen villages and town area having

total population of 31, 500. Besides, the area each year receives huge floating population especially during peak tourist season (June –

August). Given the limited scope for expansion, the growing population size is a matter of great concern which warrants a plethora of

tough measures to protect the ecological footprint of the area. In the Master Plan, limited expansion is given to the existing settlement



keeping in view the future demand over next 20-30 years. A coherent policy framework needs to be spelt out not only to mitigate the

impact of environmental problems but also to prevent the area from further environmental degradation. As such the following policy

measures are proposed:

i. Notwithstanding the provisions contained in the this Master Plan, all village settlements falling within proposed threshold

line shall be strictly allowed to grow as per landuse plan with density and bulk regulations as provided in DCRs;

ii. The village settlements falling within the wildlife area should not be allowed to expand amorphously in an unplanned

manner and should be strictly regulated by the J&K Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978;

iii. The Wildlife Department in consultation with Town Planning Organization Kashmir should lay down density and bulk

norms separately for such areas and suggest thresholds in terms of physical features or prohibitive contour to restrict the

village growth as per the provisions of relevant acts;

iv. In other areas/settlements, PDA should ensure subdivision of plots in accordance with the Master Plan provisions;

v. It would be advisable if the size of commutation is reduced either by shifting the activities downstream Lidroo or restricting

the number of non-local workers in the area;

vi. The Amarnath Base camp at Nunwan is proposed to be shifted either to Chandanwari or downstream on the western bank

of Lidder Nallah near Yanner and the space vacated so shall be used for the development of Mini-Secretariat and regional

Mini-Bus Terminal etc;

vii. The Master Plan also proposes a Mini-Secretariat to be developed at Nunwan to accommodate all government offices

under one roof to provide single-window system and minimize land requirement;

viii. In order to promote sustainable growth of these settlements, the Master Plan stipulates preservation of prime

agricultural/horticultural areas;

ix. The growth and development of village settlements shall be made community driven guided by Micro-Plans to be prepared

in consultation with the primary (local) stakeholdersxxv;

5.6.2 YATRA AND TOURISTS



Amarnath Yatra is not only a pilgrimage but also a high altitude

mountaineering effort. The nature of the 32 km track from Chandanwari to

Amarnath cave is hazardous. Having the capacity of limited pilgrims, the

track passes along high altitude region without any habitation. Until 1990,

not many pilgrims visited with only 12000 Yatris paid their obeisance over

a fortnight in 1989. However, post 1995 the Yatra acquired prominence in

the Hindu pilgrimage and there has been 50 times increase in the number

of Yatris since 1989 (12,000) up to 2012 (6, 21, 000)xxvi; though the flow of

Yatris to Pahalgam has shown a continuously fluctuating trend. It touched

the 4 lakh mark in 2004 with the growth rate of 160.9% from the previous

year (1.53 lakh Yatris in 2003). In 2013 there was again slump in the

number of Yatris visiting the cave coming down to 3.54 lakhs and only

about 1.5 lakh Yatris used the traditional Pahalgam route. The highest

number of Yatris as well as other tourists was recorded in 2011, when more

than 13.4 lakh tourists and Yatris visited Pahalgam. Chandanwari, an

ecologically fragile and snow-clad valley (for most part of a year) gets

transformed into a landscape dotted by the rows of makeshift latrines during

Yatra period. The area gets full of stench and turns into an abode of houseflies during and post Yatra period. The glacierxxvii at

Chandanwari is turned into a dumping site and due to excessive wear and tear; it vanishes at a much faster pace. The litter and solid

waste generated in the area is left unattended on the glacier which finally finds its way into the Sheshnag stream. Before starting on a

30 km trek to Amarnath cave, Yatris ease themselves in the makeshift latrines operated by the SASB. From here, the pilgrims are

ferried to the cave high in the Himalayas causing immense pressure on the high altitude glacial micro-environment.

Along the route, the pilgrims halt at nine sites, all of them ecologically fragile and sensitive with icy streams, glacier fed lakes and

frozen passes. One of the crucial halting places is Sheshnag Lake which is also ecologically very important, being the major source of

73 km long River Lidder. It is also a critical source of drinking water to the majority of households living downstream. Since, the Yatris

stay for the night here, smoke from the generators and gas ovens diffuse into the air. As part of creating overnight resting space for the

Glacier at Chandanwari resembling a mass of mud and

litter



increasing rush of Yatris, parts of glaciers are cleared to make way for the tents and latrines. The 15,500 feet glacier at MG Top has

been receding along the edges (more than 20 feet in the last 3 years) and at the bottom. Large quantities of polythene and plastic

bottles are visible along the trek route. Locals have already stopped drinking water from the river, believing it to be considerably

polluted. The Kolahai glacier, Kashmir‘s only permanent water source, nestled among the upper valleys of Pahalgam has been receding

with New Delhi based Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) saying that ―the glacier has lost 15-18% of its total volume in the past

four decades and is retreating by almost 10 feet a year.‖

The Master Plan-2032 respectfully upholds the essence and sanctity of Shri Amarnathji Yatra being purely a religious phenomenon

rooted deep in antiquity. As from records available, it has been an environmentally sustainable venture till mid-nineties. Given its

importance in Hindu pilgrimage and its potential impact on the ecology and environment of the area, the Master Plan-2032 proposes

to get the EIA done in the first instance from Ganshipora to Holy Cave in order to establish the effective threshold carrying capacity

of the treks and halting stations en-route and suggest scientific measures for conducting the Yatra.

Pending formulation of EIA by a professionally competent firm, it is proposed to take following measures:

i. As per the Report on Duration and Schedule of Yatra from 2012 onwards submitted by Sub-Committee of SASB, the

chairman of the Committee held that ―the past record indicates that nearly 90-95% of the Yatris pay obeisance at the Holy

Shrine in the initial 4-5 weeks.‖ In view of the geo-climatic conditions of the area the duration of Yatra may be confined to

6 weeks on the basis if Expert Committee Report. It is proposed to restrict the number of Yatris visiting the Holy Cave via

Pahalgam to 2500-3000 per day ;

ii. The State Government should apply mandatory capping on daily tourists by restricting it to 5000 tourists per day off Yatra

period and 2500 during Yatra period;

iii. The PDA shall observe tourist holiday (closing the area) at least once in a week to reduce the user load in the area;

iv. Shift the Nunwan Base Camp from Pahalgam either to Chandanwari or downstream on the western bank of Lidder river

near Yanner;

v. Redefine the Yatra route from Pahalgam to Holy Cave and the halting stations en-route so that least damage is caused to

the ecology and environment.



vi. A Micro-Plan of the alternative site either at Chandanwari or near Yanner shall be formulated as stated else in this report in

consultation with the SASB, Wildlife and Forest Departments.

vii. A Mini-Treatment is also proposed to be constructed at the proposed site for Base Camp by the Pahalgam Development

Authority.

viii. No permanent construction barring utilities/amenities shall be permitted in the area.

ix. As per the Committee recommendations, the garbage littered along the Yatra trek from Pahalgam to Holy Cave shall be

collected continuously and regularly during Yatra with the association of SASB.

In addition to these recommendations, the Master Plan proposes to adhere to the Nitish Sengupta Commission

Recommendations for the management of Amarnath Yatra till EIA and micro plan for the Yatra is completed.

Pahalgam Master Plan-2032 Pahalgam Development Authority


5.6 PONY MANGEMENT PLAN

Pony ride for sight-seeing in Pahalgam is an important economic activity for the locals. It has been observed that each family involved

in pony business possesses at least 2-3 ponies. In the absence of any policy or rule for the Pony Owners, the pony business has

become yet another threat to local environment. There is no ‗Code of Ethics‘ laid down for these Pony Owners, as a result which

number of complaints are being registered against them. The exorbitant rate charging per ride, dirty dress, free entry to market areas,

indecent behaviour with tourist etc are among various complaints registered against Pony Owners.

The Master Plan recognises the importance of this business activity for the locals, however, takes strong exception of the concerns

raised against those involved in the venture. There is a need to organise this activity and proper guidelines need to be drawn for its

management. As such, following proposals are envisaged for pony management in the Master Plan:

i. Following pony tracks are identified in the Master Plan:

A new pony track is proposed from Laripora near KendriyaVidyalya along the existing Circuit Road up to Hotel Natraj wherefrom going eastward behind Hotel Hill Park amid forest behind Ganeshbal reaching Sarbal.

Another track from Hotel Hilltop and CM Hut along the Circuit Road to Baisaran should be dedicated for the movement of ponies and the motorized movement should be completely discouraged by levying exorbitant entry fee.

A third track shall also be developed from Toll Post to Lidroo and then to Botkote Gujjran.

On the west side, a pony track from existing bus stand to Mamal and Mandlana to Shikargah needs to be developed.

Similarly, pony tracks to Freslan, Mandlana and Mir Pathri can also be considered to disperse the activity along all sides of Pahalgam.

ii. Following pony stands are proposed at different locations such as:

Sarbal near existing dumping site;

Near Ganeshbal;

Near Yatri Niwas;



Near Poshwan Park hutment area;

Near Laripora (east) shops opposite to KendriyaVidyalya;

Mammal near existing Parking lot;

Laripora on the west.

iii. Code of Ethics for Pony Owners/Pony-Wallas

Possession of the one pony/horse per household should be allowed.

Registration of ponies should be done in the name of the Head of the family and only one license for single pony should be provided.

Entry of ponies in the Pahalgam bowl except the dedicated pony route should be strictly restricted from early morning to late evening hours as deemed feasible by the Authority. Violators should be imposed a fine and the license should be cancelled/withheld for one week.

A disciplined ethnic dress code known as Khan Dress with a significant colour should be made mandatory for all pony operators.

Every pony should be provided a ‗License No. Plate‘ hanging with the horse at the time of operation all the time.

All the ponies should be kept clean and hygienic by the owners and a standard daily/weekly check should be done by the tourist officials or the pony association members.

Personality development and language courses should be provided to the pony operators with the help of pony

association by Tourism Department and the importance of behaviour towards tourists should be mainly followed and

taught on weekends.

Rate lists for pony rides along different tracks shall be made available at Tourist Information Centre or the Pony stands

duly monitored by the tourist officials.

The PDA and/or MC Pahalgam shall collect sanitation fee from the Pony Owners on monthly basis for the upkeep of

the affected area/tracks.

Using of pony diapers shall be made mandatory for all the Pony Owners failing which license shall be cancelled.



Treatment of the pony droppings shall be carried out in scientific manner.

5.7 TELEPHONE TOWERS

Cell phone towers have been placed haphazardly affecting the natural aesthetics as well as the natural flora of the region. Telephone

towers in the midst of coniferous trees in Nunwan and on the uphill side of the Golf Course are scars on the landscape. This has

resulted in the death of coniferous trees and should have been avoided. No telephone/cell phone towers should be allowed without

proper permit given by the Local Authority which shall ascertain its implication for the aesthetics and flora and fauna of the region.



Chapter VI

6.0 IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY AND RESOURCE MOBILIZATION

6.1 INTRODUCTION

The Government, tourism industry, civil society and other affected sectors should recognize that there is a shared risk to all if

resources in such destinations are not managed equitably and sustainably. This shared risk gives rise to a shared responsibility to work

together to address the issues, with particular responsibility resting on those deriving direct benefits, and those in positions of power

and with greater access to resources. The relevant stakeholders should consider establishing multi-stakeholder initiatives in order to

foster dialogue and understanding of important issues and impacts, and to develop collaborative approaches to address inequalities.

Measures should be taken to ensure adequate community participation including marginalised groups or sections. Such multi-

stakeholder initiatives could include the formulation of destination-specific principles of planning, management, conservation and

development with special focus on promotion of tourism and local economic development. Such initiatives could serve as a forum for

the setting up of tangible targets, knowledge sharing and promotion of good practices; and fostering joint approaches to address

resource limitations and training needs. It is again reiterated that such collaborative approaches should be developed in partnership

with local communities, with special consideration given to the development of community protocols around tourism whereby

communities expect other stakeholders how to engage with them. The link between the erosion of community development and the

purchase of land for tourism purposes should be recognised and measures to protect customary land rights of the locals should be

introduced.

Government should sensitise the people involved in tourism of their business responsibility to respect the importance of environment

and rights of local people. A clear regulatory and institutional framework as suggested below for the coordinated development and

implementation of sustainable integrated tourism planning and management should be established before any development activity is

taken up. Land use planning should be a key criterion in the development of Pahalgam tourist destination. Adequate punitive action



should be taken against tourism businesses found to be in breach of regulations. Good practices should be championed and publicised.

The Master Plan recognizes that local civil societies have an important role to play in advocacy, capacity building and sensitisation of

government, industry, and the wider public.

6.2 INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

The Master Plan is a set of coherent policies for ensuring optimization and sustainability of land uses. There is no denying the fact that

most of the developable land in Pahalgam is in private ownership which undoubtedly is expected to cause tardy implementation and

enforcement of the Master Plan proposals. Due to private ownership of land, it has been observed that most of the Master Plans are

not able to achieve the desired goals and targets. With an objective of developing Pahalgam as a sustainable tourist destination, the

Government way back felt the need of having a long-term policy framework to guide its development in a cohesive and sustainable

manner. Town Planning Organisation, Kashmir accordingly prepared the first Master Plan of Pahalgam in 1985 which was

subsequently revised in 1989. Afterwards another planning effort was made in 2005 by TPOK in the form of second Master Plan for

the horizon period 2005-2025. The Master Plan -2025 had not properly put forth the mechanism for its effective implementation. It is

strongly felt that without any robust institutional set up, comprehensive legal framework and sound resource mobilization, the Master

Plan is apt to result in another unproductive planning effort.

The Government of Jammu & Kashmir set up Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) in 1978 for the planning and development of

its Local Areaxxviii with the objective of developing tourism as a poverty reduction strategy. Given the present organizational structure,

the Master Plan proposes that PDA shall take effective measures aimed at capacity building and institutional restructuring. It is

proposed that the Authority shall strengthen its technical manpower by creating a full-fledged Technical Wing employing qualified

Town Planners, Environment Planners, Architects, and Landscape Architects etc to render technical advice in the execution proposed

development activities. The proposed wing shall be headed by a professional Town Planner of the rank of Divisional Town Planner. It

is asserted that the Authority should be capable of providing end-to-end solutions to stakeholders in infrastructure development. In

order to render the Master Plan a successful exercise, it is proposed that a vibrant and proactive Enforcement Wing with state-of-the-



art technology shall be established in consultation with concerned line departments. As recommended by the Committee, the

Authority shall also have its own Land Management Wing, Enforcement Wing and Legal unit to make it more vibrant. The authority

shall employ sufficient manpower for the preparation, implementation, monitoring and review of various plans and projects prepared

from time to time.

The Institutional Structure of Pahalgam

Development Authority being heavily

skewed towards engineering and

construction is a major impediment in the

planning and sustainable development of

the local area. There is a need to

restructure the authority to redeem its

primary goal of conserving these natural

regions using the tools of planning,

conservation, urban design, regulation and

development.

The Master Plan proposes the restructuring

of the Development Authority for arriving

at sustainable structure from Tourism,

Conservation and Economic perspectives.

The authority should be able to raise the revenues to sustain the economic and social development of the residents of the region. They

should be able to fund the road, sanitation and social infrastructure of the region. This can be using by taxing the tourists and tourism

infrastructure ensuring there are no externalities for the region and its residents. Levying of fee on building permits, parking and cable

car should be based on the sound economic principles incentivising the green buildings, public transport and environment friendly

CEO

Town PLanner

Urban Design/Landscape

GIS

Executive Engineer Enforcement

Officer Finance/Revenue



buses. The Development Authority should not become

burden on the State exchequer but should use the reasonable

tax and fee to fund the better infrastructure for the residents.

Further the building permission process is so protracted that

sometimes the tourism industry uses this alibi for the

violations. In order to ensure that tourism development is not

impeded by the protracted building permission process single

window BOCA clearance system should be adopted by the

Development Authority with all members visiting the site and

deciding on the permission based on Master Plan policy and

respective laws applicable.

Besides, the existence of multiple agencies often results in conflicts and lack of coordination among line departments. It is therefore,

suggested that any public expenditure expected to be incurred on any activity in Pahalgam Local Area shall be reflected in the Annual

Budget of the Authority. The Authority shall be kept abreast of any such investment and activity should be started only after seeking

permission from the Authority. No activity whatsoever shall be taken up in Pahalgam local area without prior approval of Pahalgam

Development Authority (PDA). The Committee recommended that no department shall provide facilities like communication, water

supply, electricity, etc without the recommendation of PDA.

6.3 RESOURCE MOBILIZATION

Implementation of a Master Plan generally requires massive financial investment, mobilization of which is a complex task. The role of

private sector shall be duly recognized and utilized in plan implementation. As a general fiscal policy on resource mobilization, it is

desirable to have a proper mix of public and private sectors, both playing a symbiotic role in a way that the public infrastructure

Tourism

Planning

Local Economic Development

Conservation



programme is implemented through budgetary sources as well as private investments. The local authority as such has to come up with

innovative fiscal instruments and means to mobilize financial resources. The resource mobilization efforts, therefore, have to consist of

a number of policy interventions at the state and local levels. One of the ways to enhance fiscal capabilities of the implementing agency

is to shed some of its functions and evolve alternative institutional arrangements for the performance of such functions. Already some

headway has been made in this regard in other parts of our country. BOO, BOT, BOOT, OMT, DBFOT etc are emerging variations

of such partnership arrangements which need to be explored.

In so far as the tourist accommodation is concerned, it shall be left to private investors and local people only. There is no denying the

fact that PDA/MCP are heavily dependent on government Grant-n-Aid for salary of staff and funding of development projects. In the

pursuit of spatial development, the government should not always be expected to spend money or participate directly in development

activities rather Authority should create its own remunerative assets and let private sector diversify its resource mobilization options. It

is proposed that PDA should hire the services of a Firm having sufficient experience in financial modeling of infrastructure projects

etc. However, following Financial Model is suggested for PDA in this Master Plan to rejig its financial structure:

The Authority should create an enabling environment for private investment in the area and should shun out such non-profit activities

which could otherwise be taken up by private investors;

The authority shall internalize development cost and properly levy charges from beneficiaries like hoteliers etc on the bases of

bed capacity/occupancy ratio etc available with them etc;

A part of the revenue generated from the levy of charges from hoteliers and other commercial establishments shall be used for

the acquisition of the non-permissible areas having slope more than 25 percent and the acquired area shall be brought under

afforestation by growing forest species;

Adequate sanitation fee shall be levied from SASB on the bases of number of Yatris visiting the area;



The taxes being collected or which are under consideration of the Government shall be used by PDA for infrastructure

development and sanitation;

Apart from normal building fee, the PDA shall also collect landuse conversionxxix fee (on the basis of a plot) @ Rs. 10 per SFT

in case of commercial use and Rs. 5 per SFT for non-commercial use;

Besides parking and building fee, all other taxes like entry fee etc collected by other departments other than MCP shall also be

collected by PDA;

The blurred lines of working between PDA and MC Pahalgam need to be removed and the resources generated through taxes

etc shall be shared on parity basis;

For first five years of Master Plan (2013-2017) implementation, it is recommended that the annual budgetary allocations made

through grant-n-aid by the Government be increased by 50% merely for upgrading the basic amenities in the area.

Incentivize the adherence to approved building permits and discouraging violation by blacklisting unscrupulous applicants;

The PDA shall prepare DPRs for such projects for which central/state funding is available under some scheme;

6.4 PHASING OF DEVELOPMENT

With limited resources in hand, the Master Plan asserts that PDA should evolve a scientific mechanism for resource mobilization and

implementation of development proposals. It has been proposed that private participation shall be encouraged to cater the potential

infrastructure demand during the horizon period of 20 years. It is proposed that alternative models under PPP format could be

practiced for each diverse development to uphold the scenic values of the area in general and Pahalgam in particular.



Table 6.1: Phasing of Development for Horizon Period

Development Component

Facility/Service

Horizon Period (2012-2032)

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

Phase – I (2013-17)

Phase – II (2018-22)

Phase – III (2023-27)

Phase – IV (2028-32)

Traffic & Transportation

Proposed Parallel Corridors along the banks of Lidder River

Widening of bridges at Sarbal and Sadhu Padav

Widening of KP Road upto Ashmuqam

Upgradation of Internal roads/Lanes/Bylanes

Dev. of parking lots near Woodstock, Freslan etc

Shifting of Pony stand near Gurudwara to Circuit Road

Introduction of Shuttle service from main towns

Introduction of hybrid/CNG buses from Pahalgam to Aru and Chandanwari

Dev. of Pony stands at proposed sites as per PLUP

Pony tracks /Walkways

Identification of Proposed Pony Tracks

Development of Walkways along River Lidder

Accommodation Camping/Tentage etc

Dev. of Ecotourism in Protected Areas (Wildlife and Forest Areas)



Tourist Resors

Construction of Huts/Hotels

Shifting of army near Hotel Natraj to Chandanwari and reclamation of huts for accommodation

Construction of Country Guest Houses/PG Houses

Government Departments

Shifting of Amarnath Base Camp from Nunwan to Chandanwari

Development of Mini-Secretariat at Nunwan

Shifting of Govt. Departments to Mini-Secretariat and Dev. of Vacant areas as per PLUP

Utilities and Amenities

Water Supply and Sanitation

Solid waste Management

Parks and Gardens

Demarcation & Development of buffers

Development of Public Parks and Gardens

Dev. & Beautification Pahalgam Main Bowl

Shifting & dev. of Amusement Park at Ganeshpora

Shifting of Army etc & dev. of bowl along western bank of Lidder

Acquisition of Land for extension of main bowl

Shifting of shops near mosque to proposed Bazaar and development of



bowl

Wayside Amenities

View Points & Rain Shelters

Cafeteria/Restraints

Adventure Facilities

Trekking routes to be redefined and basic infrastructure to be provided

Rock Climbing,Paragliding

Dev. of Water Adventure sports near Ganeshpora

Establishment of Adventure Sports Centre

Heritage & Culture Facilities

Façade Improvement of Main Market as per the Plan prepared by TPOK

Tourist Complex (Museum, Conference Hall, Auditorium, Open Air Theatre)

Construction of Heritage and Culture Centre

Ethnic Shopping Arcade etc.



6.5 REVIEW AND MONITORING OF THE MASTER PLAN

Being a ‗rolling plan‘ it is proposed that the Master Plan Pahalgam shall be revised periodically to make it more relevant and responsive

to changing circumstances. The Master Plan -2025 has been revised to accommodate the changes suggested in EIA, Expert Committee

Report and Court findings with an objective to make it responsive to public aspirations and implementable. Effort has been made to

remove prejudice and planning bias in the revision of Master Plan Pahalgam-2025. Since the Master Plan is reflective of a possible

development scenario adopted on major assumptions, presumptive growth trajectory and long term vision of a planner, it is difficult to

foresee every change expected to take place over a horizon period of twenty long years. As such, the Master Plan proclaims that ―it is

not un-changeable in nature, rather piecemeal adjustments and/or re-adjustments shall be incorporated during the implementation of

its proposals‖. In fact, every Master Plan is made inherently flexile through simplification of zoning regulations etc‖ thereby; rendering

it more responsive to necessary adjustments and/or re-adjustments based on physical development and ground realities. It is envisaged

that ―during implementation and enforcement of various proposals of the Master Plan , piecemeal modifications made in the Land Use

or in the basic framework of policies of landuse development, should be incorporated in the Plan and corrections so made be updated

at the close of every five-year (maximum) plan period as per the statutory provisions.

It is proposed that a mechanism for monitoring the progress of Master Plan be established on sound footing at appropriate levels by

the State Government for which a vibrant and proactive enforcement wing with state-of-the- art technology shall be established in

consultation with concerned line department. The Master Plan proposes that the total time taken in review, preparation and approval

of the Master Plan shall not exceed one year.



SECTION – B

DEVELOPMENT PROMOTION RULES AND REGULATIONS

&

FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT MEASURES



Chapter-VII

7.0 DEVELOPMENT PROMOTION RULES AND REGULATIONS

These regulations shall form an integral part of the Revised Master Plan Pahalgam and shall be applicable to whole of the Local Area

of Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) or the area notified by Government from time to time in the interest of sustainable

development of the area.

7.1 ZONING REGULATIONS

The Local Area of PDA has been divided into thirteen major Landuse Zones including One Wildlife Zone, One Forest Zone, One

Leisure Zone, Six Planning Zones and Four Village Zones with the landuse policy for each zone ensuring the landuses are not abused

by the implementing authority(s) and the beneficiaries (Refer Table 7.1). The Landuse Zones are mainly based on the predominant

aspects of landuse with the objective of preserving the character of each zone. The zonal boundaries are predominantly based on the

discrete geographical/administrative boundaries (Refer PLUP).

Table 7.1: Description of Landuse Zones and Predominant Uses provided therein

Sl. No.

Landuse Zones Predominant Landuse Uses Permitted/Permissible

Uses Prohibited

01 Wildlife Zone (WZ) Protected Wildlife Areas All uses permitted/ Wildlife Protection Act, 1978.

All such uses as prohibited under J&K Wildlife Protection Act, 1978.

02 Forest Zone (FZ) Demarcated Forest Areas All uses permitted/permissible under J&K Forest Act, 1987.

All such uses as prohibited under J&K Forest Act, 1987.

03 Leisure Zone (LZ) Main Bowl, Gardens and As provided under these regulations (Refer 7.2)



Parks around bowl.

04 Planning Zones

I. Planning Zone (PZ)-A (Rezpall to Freslan including Athnadan)

Residential and partly Agriculture

As provided under these regulations (Refer 7.2)

II.

Planning Zone (PZ)-B (Lower & Upper Laripora and Rangward)

Residential and partly Agriculture and Tourism use


III. Planning Zone (PZ)-C (Manzimpora)

High end Camping etc As provided under these regulations (Refer 7.2)

IV. Planning Zone (PZ)-D (Pahalgam Village)

Residential and Tourism use


V. Planning Zone (PZ)-E (Market Area)

Mixed Landuse As provided under these regulations (Refer 7.2)

VI. Planning Zone (PZ)-F (Nunwan, Ganeshbal)

Residential, Tourism and Public, Semi-public.


05 Village Zones

I. Village Zone (VZ)_01 (Bradhajji)

Abadi area and Agriculture As provided under these regulations (Refer 7.2)

II. Village Zone (VZ)_02 (Lidroo)


III. Village Zone (VZ)_03 (Serchen,Botkote,Ganeshpora up to Ashmuqam)


IV. Village Zone (VZ)_04 (Movura, Yanner, Veersaran and Khellen)




Development controls are meant for ensuring the compatibility of landuse and to avoid any interference with the pristine nature of the

area. The zoning regulations given and the standards related to ground coverage, FAR/FSI, setbacks will have to be strictly adhered to

for sustainable development of the area.

Table 7.2: Description of Landuse Zoning Regulations on the Basis of their Compatibility

S. No.

Description Uses Permitted Uses Permissible by Competent Authority

Uses Prohibited

01 Residential Use Residential uses of all types, child care, Nursery Schools, Kindergartens, Primary schools, clinics, religious uses, graveyards, Anganwadi centres, cluster /neighbourhood parks, household industries without power looms, domestic vegetable gardens.

Budget Accommodation like Country Guest House, Resorts, Rest House, Souvenir and Book shop, community buildings, convenient shops, social welfare centres, Cyber Cafe, Cafeteria.

All uses not specifically mentioned above.

02 Village Areas Residential uses with density and bulk limitations and uses specifically mentioned under Agriculture and Allied use.

Agri-tourism, huts, Resorts, homestays, guest houses, PG houses, basic amenities and other infrastructure including education and health, social welfare centres etc.


03 Retail and General Shopping/business

Retail shops, handicraft units, banks, professional offices, parking, community shops, restaurants and eating joints, public convenience.

Service station, automobile workshops, community centres and community facilities.


04 Public and Semi-public

Government/semi-govt/private offices, Museum, Cultural Institutions, Libraries, Utilities & Services, Social Infrastructure, Polytechnics, Industrial Training Institutes, Clinical Laboratories, Specialized Health

Higher order Education and Research Institutions, Nursing Homes General Hospitals.




Centres & health Clubs, Forest Research Institute, Agriculture and Horticulture Research Institute, Mountaineering Research Institute and other Research Institutions with the basic objective of the Preservation of the ecosystems and environment of the region, Fire Stations, Post Offices, Telephone Exchange, related amenities and Parking.

05 Tourism Infrastructure

(a)Huts/Hotels Huts, Hotels, Rest House and Tourist Bungalow, Parking and Parks.

Souvenir and Book shops, Health Club, Swimming Pool, Indoor Games, Cyber Cafe and Cafeteria.


(b) Integrated Tourist Resort

Huts, Hotels, Club, high end accommodation, Cafeteria, Restaurant, Souvenir and Book Shops, Art Gallery, Swimming Pool, Indoor and Outdoor games, Jogging Track, Parks, Parking, Mini Conference Hall, Gymnasium, Food Courts, Craft Shops, Library

Auditorium, Conference Hall, Open Air Theatre, Cultural Centre, Banking,


(c)Tourist / Heritage Village

All uses permitted under Residential Use, Homestay, Country Guest Houses, Paying Guest Houses, Restaurants, Craft Shops, Library and Parking.

All uses permissible Residential Use, Parks, Children Play Areas, Multipurpose Open Spaces, Playfields, Banking, Retail Shops and community facilities and services, Exhibition Area, Cultural Centre.


(d) Eco-Tourism /Camping

Tree houses, Tented Accommodation, Public Convenience, Kiosks, Camping Sites, Rain

Huts, View Points and Restaurants as per ecotourism

All uses not specifically



Shelter, Wildlife Shelter Watch and Ward and Parks as per ecotourism guidelines.

guidelines. mentioned above.

(e) Other Tourist Infrastructure

Tourist Reception Centre, Tourist Information Centre, Tourist Complex, Museum, Conference Centre, Restaurants, Souvenir and Bookshop, Handicraft Centre, Cyber Cafe.

Music and Dance Theatre, Rest Houses, Library, Club, Food Courts.


06 Recreational

Parks, Children Play Areas, Walkways, Sit-outs, Plantation, Multipurpose recreational areas/spaces, Playfields, Parking.

Botanical Gardens, Nurseries, Public Utilities, Watch and Ward, Convenient Shopping, Gazebos, Sit outs, View Points, Rain Shelters, Public Convenience.

All uses not specifically mentioned.

07 Religious Mosques, Temples, Shrines, Gurduwaras, Church, Meditation Centres, Madrassas, Library and Museum.

Parks, Parking, Convenient Shopping, Multipurpose Open Space like Eidgah; Burial and Cremation grounds.


08 Transportation Bus Terminal, Truck Terminal, Helipad, Terminal Buildings, Booking Offices, Public Conveniences, Police Post, Taxi and Sumo Stands, Restaurants incidental to the transportation use, Parking.

Warehousing, Godowns, Storage, Filling Station, Workshop, Sarai, Eating Joints, Convenient Shopping, Pony stand and sheds.


09 Industrial Agro- based industrial units on small scale such as Milk Dairy, Bread Making, Oil Mills, Furniture Making, Fruit Canning, Service Industries such as Repairs and Servicing Workshops, Extraction including Quarrying, Stone, Gravel and other Public Utility and

Industrial Residences for essential staff; Transport Companies, Service Stations, Petrol Filling Stations, Junk Yards, Show Rooms, Shops, Restaurants.




Service buildings.

10 Agriculture and Allied Activities

Agriculture/Horticulture

Agriculture including Orchards, Nurseries, Drug Farms, Dairy Farms, Poultry Farms, and uses incidental to the poultry land use, hatchery, fish farms etc and uses ancillary to Agriculture.

Watch & Ward office (not more 150.0 sft), camping, eco-tourism, Dwelling unit with density and bulk limitations, Social Forestry and Sewerage Treatment Plants if feasible.


11 Water Bodies incl. natural drainage

No use permitted No use permissible All uses prohibited.

11 Buffers (As per the Policy of this Master Plan)

Walkways, wooden fencing with the typical design to be provided by the Local Authority.

Camping Sites, Rain Shelter, View Points, Parks and Parking.


12 Wildlife/Forests/ Plantation

All forests, reserve forests, protected areas, buffers as prescribed in the Master Plan , ecotourism, Nursery, Agrostology, Soil Conservation and fish farms.

Forest Depot, Watch and Ward, Departmental Huts, Trekking Routes, Ropeways.


Zoning Regulations are put in place primarily to define the broad proposal of landuse indicated in the Master Plan in terms of various

parameters so as to ensure effective implementation of Master Plan on the ground. Zoning Regulations help in achieving appropriate

quality of life based on planning and development norms specified by the authority. It also helps in making all stakeholders, developers

and end users to become partner in promoting sustainable/quality and environment friendly development. In order to ensure planned

development, Pahalgam Local Area has been divided into various Planning Zones which include Residential, Commercial, Public and

Semi-Public, Recreational, Transport and Communication, Agriculture, Water Bodies, Special Zones, etc. Despite the fact that

Planning Zones have been classified into different land uses which are primarily broad landuse and include inter-alia uses which are



compatible and subservient to main use in order to ensure that the zones become self- sufficient and self- reliant. However, the land

use will exclude all uses which are non- compatible and are not related to main use defined in the Master Plan.

7.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR DEVELOPMENT

a. Control of Development

1. For promoting compact and balanced development in the Local Area of Pahalgam Development Authority, the Authority may

not permit the change of land use or allow construction of building on any land except as provided in the Revised Master Plan.

The Authority may also refuse such permission in the absence of basic services and facilities in terms of water supply,

sanitation, sewerage treatment, drainage, accessibility, electricity, etc. unless such amenities are provided to the satisfaction of

the Authority.

2. All development shall conform to the uses prescribed in the Revised Master Plan and no development contrary to the

provisions of this Master Plan /Proposed Landuse shall be permitted.

3. All development shall conform to the norms, standards etc. specified in these regulations.

a. Discontinuation of non-conforming development/Use(s)

i. All the development in Pahalgam Local Area shall be guided by the Revised Master Plan-2032.

ii. Any proposal of Master Plan 2005-25 that contravenes the provisions of the Revised Master Plan -2032 shall be treated

as non-conforming.

a) The non-conforming uses having valid permission and having been built as per the building permit shall be

allowed for repairs, reconstruction and/or day to day maintenance on the existing footprint;

b) The non-conforming uses without valid permissions shall be dealt as per the law.

iii. Any structure without a valid permission shall be treated as violation and dealt as per the law.



iv. Any structure without a building permit but within the norms of Revised Master Plan should also be treated as violation

and dealt as per law.

v. Any structure with a building permit but having violated the norms of the permission should also be treated as violation

and treated as per law.

vi. Any existing residential house/structure falling within non-permissible use like buffer, green or agriculture etc.; shall be

considered for repairs reconstruction etc.; as per the Master Plan regulations.

a. Setback Norms

(i) All buildings shall have adequate setbacks, as may be defined. No building shall be built abutting the road without any setback.

(ii) All public buildings shall be designed and constructed as detached buildings with setbacks as defined in each case. In the

absence of such setbacks being detailed, such setbacks shall be as given in the National Building Code.

(iii) Side Setbacks in all public building shall be minimum 20 feet or more in order to facilitate the free movement of fire tender in

case of any fire or natural calamity.

(iv) All setbacks shall be kept free of any encroachment/parking/construction in order to ensure free flow of vehicles in emergency.

(v) Setbacks in any case shall not be less than 1/3rd of the height of any building subject to the provision of (iii) above.

(vi) Distance between two buildings shall not be less than 3/5th of the average height of buildings when air, light and ventilation is

drawn and not less than 2/5th of the average heights of buildings when no light and ventilation is drawn.

b. Energy Efficient and Green Buildings

All buildings shall be made Energy efficient and planned/designed on norms specified for the green buildings. Building getting the

Green Building rating from the competent authority, shall be permitted 5% additional FAR over and above what is permitted for said

category.



c. Relaxations

Government in case of hardship may relax any of the provisions of these regulations in the intense of public, equityor natural justice

on such terms and conditions and on payment of such charges as may be specified from time to time.

d. Conformity with Other Acts And Regulations

(a) Situated anywhere in the Local Area of PDA shall also be subject to provisions of J&K Wildlife Protection Act, 1978 and

Rules made there-under.

(b) Situated anywhere in the Local Area of PDA shall also be subject to provisions of J&K Forest Act, 1987 and J&K Forest

(Conservation) Act, 1997and Rules made there-under.

(c) Situated anywhere in the Local Area of PDA shall also be subject to provisions of Pahalgam Forest Rules, 1999.

(d) Situated anywhere in the Local Area of PDA shall also be subject to provisions of Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and

Rules made there-under.

(e) Situated anywhere in the Local Area of PDA shall also be subject to provisions of Water (Prevention and Control of

Pollution) Act, 1974 and Rules made there-under.

(f) Situated anywhere in the Local Area of PDA shall also be subject to provisions of Air (Prevention and Control of

Pollution) Act, 1981 and Rules made there-under.

(g) Jammu & Kashmir State Forest Policy 2010.

(h) Situated anywhere in the Local Area of PDA shall also be subject to provisions of the act related to telecommunication,

archaeology and conservation/ preservation of monuments.

(i) Situated and abutting on any road shall also be regulated and controlled by the Building line and Control line prescribed

under the relevant act like J&K Prevention of Ribbon Development Act 2007 (Svt) and Rules made there-under.

(j) Situated in the vicinity of the Grid Lines laid by the PDD etc; under the Indian Electricity Rules, 1956 or PDD rules, shall

be regulated and controlled by the horizontal and vertical clear distances to be kept open to sky.



(k) Development Permission granted by Competent Authority on the basis of any document/NOC received is not final and

conclusive. It shall be considered in true sense and meaning of concerned issuing Authority. This Authority has no legal

responsibility for such development permission.

e. Development Work to be in Conformity with these Regulations

(a) All development work shall conform to the Revised Master Plan proposals and the provisions made under these

regulations. If there is a conflict between the requirements of these regulations and any other Regulations, if any, in force

the requirement of these regulations shall prevail.

(b) Change of use: No building or premises should be changed or converted to a use other than the sanctioned use without

prior permission of the Authority in writing. Change of use not in conformity with these regulations shall not be

permissible.

7.3 LAND USE DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS

1. Residential Areas Minimum area of a plot shall not be less than100 sq. mtr. with at least TWO sides including frontage not less than 8.0 m wide.

The MAXIMUM permissible ground coverage and FAR/FSI of a plot shall be subject to the limitations prescribed in the

following tables:

Table 7.3: Space and Maximum Floor Area Norms

Sr. No. Plot Area in Sq. Mtr. Maximum permissible built up

area on Any Floorxxx Maximum permissible

FAR/FSI

1 Up to 125 66% OR 75 Sq. Mtr. 1.2

2 126- 175 60% OR 80 Sq. Mtr. 1.2



3 176-250 50% OR 90 Sq. Mtr. 1.2

4 251-500 45% OR 100 Sq. Mtr. 1.2

5 >500 40% OR 110 Sq. Mtr. 1.2

Table 7.4: Minimum Setback Norms Other than Front Setbacks

Sr. No. Plot Area (Sq. Mtr.) Rear Setback Side Setbacks

1 Up to 125 3.0 m 2.0 m on ONE side only

2 126- 175 3.0 m 3.0 m on ONE side only

3 176-250 3.5 m 3.0 m on ONE side only

4 251-500 3.5 m 3.0 m each on BOTH sides

5 >500 4.5 m 3.0 m each on BOTH sides

Table 7.5: Front Setback and Building Height Regulations

Sr. No. Width (ROW) of the abutting

Road/Street (M) Minimum

Front Setback (M) Maximum

Building Height (Feet)

1 Up to 5.5 mtr. 3.0 26.0

2 More than 5.5 and up to 7.5 3.5 26.0

3 More than 7.5 and up to 12.0 3.5 26.0

4 More than 12 and up to 18 4.0 26.0

5 More than 18 5.0 30.0



Note:

Notwithstanding other conditions, the ―Residential Use‖ permissible under these regulations beyond the Proposed Threshold Line

(Refer PLUP-2032) ‗from Sarbal upstream up to Freslan‘ shall be subject to following necessary conditions*:

1. The maximum coverage on any floor shall not be more than 15% OR 800 SFT whichever is less; 2. The maximum height of any structure under residential use shall not be more than 23 feet; 3. The maximum FAR/FSI shall not be more than 0.50.

*These mandatory conditions shall not be applicable downstream Sarbal up to Ashmuqam rather the areas shall be governed by the regulations spelt out for residential use falling within proposed Threshold Line.

2. Commercial Use(s) excluding Hotels/Huts/Country Guest Houses etc under tourism use

Sr. No. Type of Commercial Area

Max. built-up on any floor

Setback norms*

Front Rear Sides

1 Retail shops and General Business

60% OR 1000 SFT whichever is less

Proposed Building Line OR otherwise equal to available road width but not less than 15 feet.

One half of the front setback norms in case of low rise structures and 3/4th of front setback in case of high rise structures; or 1/3rd of the height of building whichever is more.

One half of the front setback norms in case of low rise structures and 3/4th of front setback in case of high rise structures; or 1/3rd of the height of building whichever is more.

Note:In case of convenient shopping under mixed landuse (residential-cum-commercial) along inner links existing within village settlements, the same norms

as provided above under 7.3 (1) shall apply with the proposed commercial area/use only on ground floor not exceeding 1/4 th of the built up area OR 250

SFT whichever is less.



*For computation of rear and other setback margins, Front setback shall not be worked out on the basis of applicable buffer.

Any structure having height up to 28 feet shall be described as Low Rise.

Maximum height of a building shall not be more than 35 feet.

3. Industrial Use

The Maximum permissible built-up area on any floor including the ground floor shall be 50% of the plot area.

(i) There shall be clear minimum distance of 6.0m between two detached LOW RISE structures for plots of more than 1000sq m

and 4.5m for plots measuring up to 1000 sq. m.

(ii) 6m clear minimum margins shall be kept along the periphery of the plot used for industrial use like mills, godowns, service

station with petrol pumps, motor repair garage or/and a building unit of 1000sq m or more to be used for industrial use.

(iii) For building units less than 1000sq m used for industrial use, the minimum margins shall be 4.5m.

(iv) The height shall not more than 23 feet subject to the minimum width of the abutting road not less than 12 metre.

4. Public and Semi Public and institutional Use

The Maximum permissible built-up area on any floor including the ground floor shall be 50% of the plot area.

(i) There shall be clear minimum distance of 5.0m between two detached structures for plots of more than 1000sq m and 4.0m for

plots measuring up to 1000 sq. m.

(ii) 5m clear minimum roadside margin and 4 m side margins shall be kept in case of a building unit of 1000sq m or more and for

building units less than 1000sq m, the minimum margins shall be 4.0m and 3.5 m respectively.

(iii) The height shall not be more than 35 feet subject to the width of the abutting road being not less than 12m.



5. Landuse Regulations for Tourism Use (Huts, Guest/Lodging Houses and Paying Country Guest Houses)xxxi

Sr. No.

Use Other Setback Norms* (Feet)

Front Rear Sides

01 Huts/Hotels

Proposed Building Line otherwise equal to available road width but not less than 15 feet.

One half of the front setback norms in case of low rise structures and 3/4th of front setback in case of high rise structures; or 1/3rd of the height of building whichever is more

One half of the front setback norms in case of low rise structures and 3/4th of front setback in case of high rise structures; or 1/3rd of the height of building whichever is more

02 Country Guest House and Paying Guest House

As applicable for residential use



*For computation of rear and other setback margins, Front setback shall not be worked out on the basis of applicable buffer.

Land Use Regulations and Maximum Coverage Norms

Sr. No. Type of use Minimum Plot Area (in Kanal)

Max. Height Max. built-up on any floor

Maximum FAR/FSI

1 Integrated Tourist Resort 10 28 feet 15% 0.4

2 Hut 1.5 28 feet 20% 0.5

3 Hotel* 4.0 35 feet 15% 0.4

4 Country Guest House 1.5 28 feet 20% 0.5

5 Paying Guest House 1.0

A) Compulsory Conditions:



i. *Hotels shall be permitted ONLY in Planning Zone-D (Pahalgam Village) and Planning Zone-E (Market Area) as defined

in the PLUP-2032,

ii. The maximum plinth area of a single structure shall not be more than 2500 SFT in case of a Hotel (if permissible), 1800 SFT for a Hut, and

1500 SFT for Country Guest House. However, PG houses, it shall be the same as prescribed for the residential use subject to such conditions as

laid down for the residential use;

iii. For Country Guest House and PG House, the maximum number of guest beds which can be permitted shall be limited to eight (08) and four

(04) respectively;

iv. At least an equal quantum of area proposed to be built up shall be brought under profuse plantation.

B) Optional Condition:

i. the PDA/concerned authority may rebate the „local beneficiary‟ by 15-20% of the Building Fee in case of tourist Resorts. OR

ii. in case of Tourist Resorts, the BOCA may grant additional 2% FAR/FSI to the beneficiary.

6. Land use byelaws for Ecotourism in protected areas

The landuse bye-laws and other regulations for ecotourism shall be governed or regulated by the J&K Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978

and J&K Forest Act, 1987 and other relevant acts and rules made there under including Pahalgam Forest Rules 1995. However,

following landuse regulations and other building norms for ecotourism are proposed which shall be exclusively subject to the sole

discretion of Wildlife/Forest Department. These model regulations for ecotourism shall be applicable to the extent as and when

decided by the Wildlife/Forest Department as the case may be.

1. The Maximum permissible built-up area on any floor including the ground floor shall be 10% of the plot area.

2. The maximum FSI permissible shall not be more than 0.10 with height restricted to 15 feet.

3. Only wooden log/mud huts/homestays shall be allowed for accommodation for of guests.

4. No concrete walling of the premises shall be permitted in such areas.



5. There shall be complete ban on the use of such machines/apparatuses causing air and noise pollution or which may disturb the

habitat of species living in the area.

6. Such development shall be permitted only along fringe areas of the Protected Areas to avoid undue disturbance to fauna and

flora.

7. The development should not be conspicuous instead should be properly camouflaged and governed by natural slope.

8. The development shall be permitted once the concerned agencies are fully satisfied that it will not pose any danger to plant and

animal species inhabiting the area.

7.4 PARKING NORMS

1. Parking Norms for each 100sq.mtr. of covered area for various building shall be as under:

a. Commercial (Shopping & General Business)- 1.50 ECS

b. Restaurants-2.0 ECS

c. Education and Health- 2.5 ECS

d. Public building other than Education- 2 ECS

e. Warehousing- 2 ECS

f. Government Offices- 1.8 ECS

g. Hotel/Hut/Country Guest House/PG House-1 ECS per 2 Letable rooms

2. 1 ECS shall be equivalent to—

a. 25 Sq. Mtr. for surface parking at ground level,

b. 30 Sq. Mtr. for stilt parking at ground level,

c. 35 Sq. Mtr. for basement parking.



Chapter-VIII

8.0 FACADE CONTROL MEASURES

Guidelines have been prepared to create an identifiable and cohesive design character, utilizing a fairly limited vocabulary of design

features that reinforces the mountain resort imageability—typical character of Kashmir‘s tourist destinations. The intent is to have each

building and other man-made features contributing to the character of

the area so that there is an identifiable mountain resort image instead of

a desperate collection of individual components and a cluster formation

of units.

The design concept will take inspiration from the mountain architecture

and planning which emphasizes sloping roofs, and abundant use of

natural materials-primarily timber and local stone. All development

proposals must be in compliance with the landuses prescribed in Master

Plan and comply with the prescribed guidelines that will position

Pahalgam as the most attractive Tourist Resort on the tourist map of

Jammu and Kashmir.

8.1 DESIGN CONCEPTS AND PROPORTIONS OF BUILDING

ELEMENTS

The shape of the building will be determined by its functional mass. False appurtenances and decorative architectural elements with no

function will not be permitted. It is intended that the style be rustic, solid and true, with its elegance and grace provided by good

proportions, good massing and good relationship to the other buildings.

Harmonious blend with natural surroundings



8.1.1 LAND SLOPE AND CONTOURS

Design must evolve considering zero or minimal alteration of existing

slopes and contours. Slope cutting shall not be allowed to

accommodate any structure that is not compatible to slopes and

contours.

8.1.2 LANDFORMS AND GEOGRAPHICAL CHARACTER OF SOIL

Landforms and geographical character must be respected while

planning any road access and the raising of structure and its allied

infrastructure. No retaining wall of concrete or stone shall be permitted

for thrusted placement of any building.

8.1.3 IMPACT ON ENVIRONMENT

Services such as garbage disposal, waste water management, Sewerage

etc. shall be individually or collectively managed to leave underground

or above ground resources unpolluted.

8.1.4 ENERGY EFFICIENT PLANNING

All building placements, their windows and roof slopes along with tree foliage shall be planned to achieve maximum energy efficient

designs in order to reduce dependence on mechanical and non-renewable energy resources which otherwise are environmentally and

financially expensive.

8.1.5 ROOFS

Roofs will be of utmost importance to the visual landscape of the resort, as they will be viewed from above further up the mountain.

Sloping roofs and overhangs are a required element in all building design of mountain resorts with minimum of 30 degree slope

considering heavy snowfall in the valley.

Construction in response to natural drainage and slope of area



The main roof form should be articulated with a combination of full-scale gables and dormers that provide windows to habitable

spaces and facilitate achieving balance with mountain as backdrop.

Roof finishes are important as they are highly visible from the ski slopes and should be preferably be of natural slate or ribbed metal in

fast green colour.

Eaves should project at least two feet on all sides of a roof and Eaves,

fasciae, bargeboards and soffits should be or appear to be of natural

wood.

8.1.6 CHIMNEYS

All chimneys must appear on design and construction drawings

submitted to the Approval Authority.

Chimneys should have a stone finish where visible from the

exterior of a building as they are traditionally integral part of roofs

in mountain areas.

8.1.7 WALL FINISHES AND FOUNDATIONS

All foundations above ground shall be either of rubble stone walls

or finished with stone fascia.

The main floor must create a strong connection to the ground with a solid base rising at least to window sill height or plinth level.

Curtain wall forms of glass, metal or concrete panels are not to be permitted. Components of building facades such as wooden

frame of doors and windows will contribute to the timber theme and are strongly encouraged.

Local material complements Design & Function of a Structure



8.1.8 COLOURS

Doors should be of natural wood colours. Window frames and mullions in traditional colours of natural wood, brown, black,

white, forest green or Pompeii red are preferred over other colours.

All colour schemes must be submitted for approval. Earth tones that are compatible with other buildings will be encouraged.

Colours in glaring contrast with other buildings will be discouraged.

8.1.9 WINDOW SHAPES AND GLAZING OF OPENINGS

Large glazing of window opening and similar façade apertures are encouraged to increase visual cones from indoor spaces to

outdoor natural scenery.

All glazed openings should be treated for thermal loss using

double glazing.

Window openings and door openings shall have simple forms

and extensive use of arch openings is not allowed.

Arch openings in glazed areas if used shall be restricted to main

entry area only.

8.1.10 ENTRY AREAS

Entry areas should have a high quality of finish and detail as these

areas leave some of the most lasting impressions. Building should

have main entrances that are easily identifiable and which evoke a

sense of entry. Entries should be weather protected either by

overhanging gable eaves, arcades or veranda elements. Materials

about the entry way should again include stone and wood elements.

Construction in response to natural slope



8.1.11 OUTDOOR ELEMENTS/LANDSCAPE AND STREETSCAPE

Landscape elements should reinforce the rustic themes of

a park like setting. Road barriers should not be steel or

concrete, but made of simple stone posts supporting

horizontal logs or wood. Where fences are necessary they

should also be of stone and timber but continuous

outdoor spaces are encouraged, rather than fenced areas.

Road surfaces and driveway surfaces should minimize

expanses of earth, asphalt or concrete. In private driveway

and entrance areas, consideration should be given to

crushed gravel and stone or concrete pavers.

The main criteria to be followed will be the retention or

regeneration of the natural landscape, enhanced to create

an air of quality to the resort.

Sun consideration must be given to decks and patios. Existing trees should be preserved.

Street furniture items should be of rustic materials such as stone and solid wood-in benches, kiosks and barriers.

Textured surface treatments for pedestrian walkway and plaza areas should be small in scale, durable and attractive. Asphalt will

not be permitted as a walkway finish. Plain concrete is discouraged. Concrete pavers and paving stones are encouraged.

Natural elements reinforce the tourist destination theme



8.1.12 SIGNAGE

All sign designs must be approved by the approval Authority prior to installation. Signs may only be of solid materials of wood or

stone and may only utilize front lighting. Backlighting of exterior signs will not be permitted.

8.1.13 NIGHT LIGHTING

Night lighting should be adequate for comfort and safe movement, and designed for an intimate, aesthetic effect. Wherever possible,

light sources should be shielded and directional. Street lighting should be attached to buildings where possible to avoid the necessity

for large and often unattractive lamp standards.

8.1.14 SCREENING AND ENCLOSURE OF SERVICE AREAS

Service areas must be unobtrusive and in keeping with the small-scale character of the mountain resort. Storage, garbage collection,

snow removal equipment, mechanical or electrical equipment, transformers, utility tanks, satellite dishes, etc. must be designed

appropriately to be contained inside building areas, placed underground or suitably screened and must be part of the initial approved

design.

8.1.15 EXTERNAL SPACES

Each individual unit should have a semi-private exterior space such as a patio or deck that is screened from direct overlook by the

neighbouring units within the same grouping, whether that screening is achieved through building form, overhanging roof, lattice or

pergola elements. Street furniture items should be of rustic materials such as stone and solid wood-in benches, kiosks and barriers.

8.1.16 PARKING

Parking should be at grade or as close to road level as possible to accommodate winter driving conditions. Garages may be to the side

of the grouping. Individual car porches or garages as separate elements in front of the guesthouse units will not be permitted.



8.1.17 GARBAGE

In mountain resort areas, special care must be taken with kitchen waste in multi-unit buildings. Each multi-unit residential building

must provide a predator and vermin proof interior space for garbage collection and transfer, located for easy access by garbage hauling

contractors. No external areas are to be used for the storage of garbage.

8.1.18 PUBLIC OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES AND SPACES

In the resort base area, outdoor space should be provided either on a public area adjacent to that site for various activities to enliven

the resort. Building owners should cooperate with the Development Authority to ensure that all public plaza areas have a program of

activities including entertainment, displays and spaces assigned for educational activities, meeting places and starting points for walking

and hiking tours.

Interpretation

These guidelines have been prepared for the proposed development of the area and should be considered as a permanent design direction of this Master Plan.

However, in the event of conflict between these Guidelines and other conditions of the Master Plan, the Master Plan and zoning byelaws shall prevail and these

guidelines must be viewed as supplementary.



Annexure-A

INCOMPATIBLE USES TO BE SHIFTED

Sl. No. Activity Shifted to Remarks

01 Bus Stand at Sadhu Padav Freslan on R/S of Pahalgam-Chandanwari Road

The activity falling within the river bed has been accordingly shifted to alternative site at Freslan.

02 Fire & Emergency, Police Station, PHE, PDD offices and other Govt. Offices except PDA, MCP and Revenue

Mini-Secretariat proposed at Nunwan

Activities have been proposed to be shifted for creating single-window system and reducing the intensity of landuse near Bowl.

03 Tourist Taxi Stand near Gurudhwara Existing pony stand near Nathu Rasoi

Being a sordid spot near bowl and creating chaotic traffic scenes near the bowl.

04 Pony Stand near Woodstock Hotel Yatri Niwas along the Circuit Road Being a sordid spot near bowl and creating

unhygienic/stinky environment near the bowl. 05 Pony Stand near Mountview Hotel PDA Huts along the Circuit Road

06 Shops Complex near Jamia Masjid, shops at Old parking Lot near MC Office and shops adjoining Petrol Pump

Proposed Ethnic Bazaar/Shopping Arcade

Being a sordid spot near bowl Main (Central) Bowl and for increasing the area of

07 Petrol Pump Downstream near Lidroo on KP Road

Creating traffic jams near main Market

08 Defense near Mamal Bridge, JKTDC Hutment opposite Natraj Hotel

Chadanwari/Yanner as per EIA

To mitigate direct impact of Yatra and defense on Pahalgam Tourist Resort.

09 Nunwan Base Camp

10 Railway Board Guest House (gutted) Downstream near Yanner/Ganshipora

To reclaim the Central bowl for recreational activities.



Annexure-B

LOCAL AREA OF PAHALGAM DEVELOPEMNT AUTHORITY



Annexure -C

MEANINGS & DEFINITIONS

(a) Act means ‗The Jammu & Kashmir Development Act, 1970.‘

(b) Amenities means roads, streets, open spaces, parks, recreational grounds, playgrounds, gardens, water supply, electric supply, street lighting, drainage, sewerage, public works and other utilities, communication network, surface and convenience.

(c) Authority means Pahalgam Development Authority constituted under J&K Development Act, 1970.

(d) Automatic Sprinkler System means an arrangement of pipes and sprinklers, automatically operated by heat and discharging water on fire, simultaneously an audible alarm.

(e) Basement Or Cellar shall mean the lower storey of a building having at least half of the clear floor height of the basement or cellar below average ground level.

(f) Building Line means the line up to which the plinth of a building adjoining a street or an extension of a street or on a future street may lawfully extend and includes the lines prescribed, in any Zonal plan and/or Master Plan.

(g) Building permit means a Building Permission including authenticated building/site plans issued by PDA/Authority designated under Control of Building Operations Act, 1988.

(h) Built-Up Area means the area covered by a building on all floors including cantilevered portion, if any, but except the areas excluded specifically under these Regulations.

(i) Commercial Building means a building or part of a building which is used as shops, and/or market for display and sale of merchandise, either wholesale or retail, building used for transaction of business or the keeping of accounts, records for similar purpose, professional service facilities, corporate offices, software services, offices of commercial undertakings and companies petrol bunk, restaurants, lodges, nursing homes, cinema theatres, multiplex, community hall (run on commercial basis) banks, clubs run on commercial basis, storage and service facilities incidental to the sale of merchandise and located in the same building shall be included under this group, except where exempted.

(j) Committee/Evaluation Committee means constituted by the Government for scrutiny of objections and suggestions received from stakeholders on the draft master plan-2032.

(k) Corridor means a common passage or circulation space including a common entrance hall.

(l) Country Guest House means a Guest House in a village used for tourism purposes but limited to 8 beds and 1

(m) Courtyard means a space permanently open to the sky within the site around a structure and paved/concrete.



(n) Dwelling Unit (DU) means a shelter consisting of residential accommodation for one family. Provided that the minimum accommodation in a dwelling unit shall comprise of one habitable room, a kitchen and a water closet/bathroom. In no case the size a DU shall be less than 250 SFT.

(o) Existing Building means a building or a structure existing authorized before the commencement of this Master Plan.

(p) Existing Landuse Plan means the plan showing the different land uses existing at the time of preparation of existing land use of Local Area, as indicated on the existing land use plan appended to the Master Plan-2013.

(q) Farm House means a house constructed by the owner of a farm on his land for the purpose of— (i) Dwelling unit- as the main use and (ii) Farm shed- the ancillary use.

(r) Floor means the lower surface in a storey on which one normally walks in a building, and does not include a mezzanine floor. The floor at ground level with a direct access to a street or open space shall be called the ground floor; the floor above it shall be termed as floor 1, with the next higher floor being termed as floor 2, and so on upwards.

(s) Floor Area Ratio (FAR) means the ratio expressed in percentage between the total floor area of a building on all floors and total area of site/plot expressed as

FAR= Covered Area on all floors x 100 Plot Area

(t) Government means the Government of State of Jammu & Kashmir.

(u) Ground Level means the level of the crown of the existing nearest constructed road or existing ground level, High flood level whichever is higher as may be decided by Competent Authority.

(v) Garage-Private means a building or a portion thereof designed and used for the parking of vehicles.

(w) Garage-Public means a building or portion thereof, designed other than as a private garage, operated for gain, designed and/or used for repairing, servicing, hiring, selling or storing or parking motor-driven or other vehicles.

(x) Habitable Room means a room occupied or designed for occupancy for human habitation and uses incidental thereto, including a kitchen if used as a living room, but excluding a bath-room, water closet compartment, laundry, serving and storing, pantry, corridor, cellar, attic, store-room, and spaces not frequently used, the size and height of such room shall not be less than 3.5 Sq. Mtr. and 2.75 Mts. respectively (height shall be measured from finished floor to finished ceiling or middle of pitched roof).

(y) Height of Building means the vertical distance measured from the average ground level/ high flood level/plot level upto the ridgeline of the roof.



(z) Hotel: A premises used for lodging on payment with or without boarding facilities.

(aa) Local Area means the area declared as Local Area of Pahalgam Development Authority under the provisions of ‗The Jammu & Kashmir Development Act, 1970‘ outside the forest boundary and wildlife area.

(bb) Lift means a mechanically guided car, platform or transport for persons and materials between two or more levels in a vertical or substantially vertical direction.

(cc) Loft means an intermediate floor between two floors with a maximum height of 1.2 Mts. and which is constructed and adopted for storage purpose. The loft if provided in a room shall not cover more than 30% of the floor area of the room.

(dd) Margin means space fully open to sky provided at the plot level from the edge of the building wherein built-up area shall not be permitted except specifically permitted projections under this regulation.

(ee) Mezzanine Floor means an intermediate floor between two floors overhanging or overlooking a floor beneath.

(ff) Open Space means an area forming an integral part of the plot, left permanently open to sky.

(gg) Parking Space means an enclosed or unenclosed covered or open area sufficient in size to park vehicles. Parking spaces shall be served by a driveway connecting them with a street or alley and permitting ingress or egress of vehicles.

(hh) Paying Guest House means a part of residential house or an attachment to a residential house used for the tourism purposes limited to 4 beds.

(ii) Permission means a valid permission or authorization in writing by the Competent Authority to carry out development or a work regulated by the Regulations.

(jj) Plinth means the portion of the external wall between the level of the crown of the street and the level of the storey first above the street.

(kk) Plinth Area means the built-up covered area measured at the floor level of the basement or of any storey.

(ll) Porch means a covered surface supported on pillars or otherwise for the purpose of a pedestrian or vehicular approach to a building.

(mm) Rest House means a guest house of a Government Department used for the stay of the officials for office purposes with no commercial activity.

(nn) Road/Street means any highway/Expressway street, lane, pathway, alley, stairway, passageway, carriageway, footway, square place or bridge, whether a thoroughfare or not, over which the public have a right of passage or access or have passed and had access uninterruptedly for a specified period, whether existing or proposed in any scheme, and includes all bunds channels, ditches, storm-water drains, culverts, sidewalks, traffic islands, road-side trees and, hedges retaining walls, fences, barriers and railings within the street lines.



(oo) Right of Way/ROAD WIDTH means the whole extent of space within the boundaries of a road when applied to a new road/street, as laid down in the city survey or Master Plan or prescribed road lines by any act or law and measured at right angles to the course or intended course of direction of such road.

(pp) Use Zone means the dominant use of an area namely Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Public and Semi-Public, etc. as defined in the proposed land use plan.

(qq) Water Course/Water way means a natural channel or an artificial channel, canal, river, water way formed by draining or diversion of a natural channel meant for carrying storm and waste water.

(rr) Zone means any one of the division into which the Local Area is divided for purpose of development.



Annexure-D

LANDUSE ZONING PLAN



Annexure-E

FAÇADE IMPROVEMENT PLAN OF PAHALGAM MARKET AREA



i Ashmuqam is not part of the PDA Local Area hence the population not included in the projections but included in the landuse plan.

ii For urban area, the WFPR is just 19% lower than the rural areas. iii Census 2001 iv EIA Report of Pahalgam v The number decreased to 3.50 lac in 2013 vi EIA Report of Pahalgam vii

Including Amarnath Yatris viii

However, due to Uttrakhand flash floods which ravaged four stations of the state in June 2013, the number of Yatris visiting Pahalgam has gone drastically down from 6.35 lac in 2011 to 3.54 lac in 2013. ix Based on field interaction with the hoteliers and EIA

xThe phasing of projected bed requirement by 2032 is inclusive of the demand (50%) to be met through camping sites and ecotourism based accommodation, etc.

xi The iinstructions issued by the Honourable Chief Minister.

xii About 82% of the waste generated in Pahalgam is non-domestic which as per this principle shall be proportionately collected from non-domestic sources. xiii The instructions issued by the Honourable Chief Minister. xiv The instructions issued by the Honourable Chief Minister. xvAn Overview 2001-2010 of Department of Wildlife Protection, J&K Govt. xvi The instructions issued by the Honourable Chief Minister. xvii In the Draft Master PlanPahalgam-2032, the existing Amusement Park was proposed to be shifted from its present location downstream near Ganshipora and develop the existing park as a Bio-diversity Park in view of the flora available in the area. xviii Parking (beat) Survey 2013, TPO(K) xix Road having same ROW proposed in this Master Plan. xx Refer chapter V: Environment Conservation and Management Plan xxi Demand is inclusive of projected peak day tourist accommodation of 10000 beds by 2032. xxii Present municipal limits of Pahalgam. xxiii As per our observation made during primary survey xxivAs per the PIL filed in the Honourable High Court J&K, about 144 pine trees were charred for the Hotel Grand Mumtaz alone which is constructed amid the lush green forests as shown in follow up Plate on next page. xxv Given the limited timeframe and the scope of work entrusted by the Govt., Micro-Plans could not be prepared and will be taken up separately later. xxviDecreased to 3.50 lakh in 2013. xxvii Though for some people it may be a temporary accumulation of snow, but its appearance from the photo above unravels the painful story. xxviii Recently extended up to Ashmuqam along both the banks of River Lidder xxix Any change of landuse from non-developable to developable shall be considered by PDA for levy of Landuse Conversion Fee under this master plan. xxx Maximum permissible built up area shall be whichever is less. xxxi Parking requirements for Hotels/Huts/Guest/PG Houses shall be worked out as per the standards given under 7.4 (1-g).

REVISED MASTER PLAN-2032 Pahalgam Development...

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