Budgam: The Doodhpathri Development Authority has ordered strict regulation of pony operations within its jurisdiction, directing that only registered and licensed ponies be permitted to operate at the tourist destination.
According to an official order issued by the Office of the Chief Executive Officer, Doodhpathri Development Authority, hundreds of ponies were found operating without valid registration under the Tourist Trade Act 1978. The authority noted that unregistered operations pose risks to the safety of visitors and their property.
The order states that as per official records, 310 ponies are currently registered with the Tourism Department under the Tourist Trade Act 1978 and have been granted licenses by the Directorate of Tourism, Kashmir. A list of these registered ponies has been enclosed as an annexure to the directive.
In view of the situation, the authority has directed that only those ponies holding valid registration shall be allowed to function within Doodhpathri. Enforcement agencies have been asked to ensure compliance with the order in the interest of tourist safety and regulation of services.
Copies of the directive have been forwarded to the Commissioner Secretary Tourism, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Director Tourism Kashmir, Senior Superintendent of Police Budgam, SDPO Khansahib and SHO Police Station Khansahib for information and necessary action.
“The move is aimed at streamlining tourism-related services at Doodhpathri, one of Budgam district’s key tourist attractions, ahead of the upcoming travel season,” said Chief Executive Officer, Doodhpathri Development Authority. [KNT]
