SASB running parallel govt in Pahalgam base camp of Amarnath:PDP

Srinagar, Jun 16 (UNI) Accusing Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) of running a parallel government in Pahalgam, base camp for holy Amarnath cave, People's Democratic Party (PDP) today said illegal construction in the area has caused environmental hazards.

In a statement issued here senior leader of PDP and M L C Rafi Ahmad Mir, warned the SASB to stop its ''malicious business of environmental degradation by encroaching upon the government affairs''.

He threatened of agitation if the authorities failed to take any action against SASB.

Mr Mir also castigated Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) and other government agencies for what he termed as their failure in preservation and protection of scenic beauty of Pahalgam valley.

''Civilians have to seek permission for construction in the area but several government departments and corporations were raising constructions in violation of all rules, he said.

Mr Mir said SASB in contravention to the admonitions of environmentalists and local administration was erecting structures on way to Amarnath cave in Pahalgam and Baltal which would certainly cause environmental degradation and pollution hazards, thereby endangering the very vitals of the natural resources.

''PDP has time and again made it clear that any action detrimental to the interests of the people of the state was condemnable and that the SASB should stop erecting structures in Pahalgam and Baltal and should not indulge in the affairs not falling under its jurisdiction,'' Mir added.

He said SASB has been giving impression as if it was running a parallel government in the state'' and asserted that PDP will not allow wreckage of world famous tourist resorts and for that matter it will lock horns with all those forces allergic to the preservation and protection of the interests of the people of Kashmir.

UNI BAS SP KP1905