In a major initiative, development of ecologically sustainable mountain trails have been announced in the Union Budget 2026-27. Jammu and Kashmir is surrounded with mountains and the eco-friendly trekking and hiking trails will be game-changer for the Himalayan region. Let the trekkers explore nature in its purest form.

Otherwise what we have been witnessing in J&K is haphazard development especially in eco-fragile areas in the name of so-called development! Owing to its unique topography, Jammu and Kashmir being a multi-hazard prone Himalayan region is vulnerable to natural disasters especially earthquake, floods, landslides, windstorms and soil erosion. In fact J&K ranks third among the Himalayan areas which are vulnerable to climate change and fall in highest seismic zones. Amid climate change, it is the need of the hour to go for sustainable development and the government must take lead in it.

Nature lovers are pinning hope on the Budget to be tabled by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the Legislative Assembly on February 6. It is expected that special provisions of conservation of environment, especially water bodies will be included in the budget. The CM, who is a nature lover, must consider the importance of water bodies and restore navigational routes.

J&K has been facing massive environmental challenges. The water bodies in Srinagar are inter-connected and the........

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