Is Trekking, Camping, and Hiking Now Prohibited in Poonch for Security Reasons?
Synopsis
Discover why Poonch has imposed a ban on trekking, camping, and hiking activities. This decision aims to enhance public safety amid rising security concerns in the region's high-altitude areas. Find out what this means for adventurers and tourists.
Key Takeaways
Trekking, camping, and hiking are now prohibited in high-altitude areas of Poonch.
Security concerns prompted this decision from the District Magistrate.
Exemptions apply to government officials and security personnel.
Violators may face legal action according to the law.
Prior permission is required for any official activities by adventure clubs.
Jammu, Jan 13 (NationPress) On Tuesday, the District Magistrate (DM) of Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir has issued a ban on trekking, camping, hiking, and other related activities in the region's forested areas, citing security concerns.
The order from the Poonch DM stated, "...based on intelligence gathered from security agencies and field operatives regarding safety issues in specific high-altitude and forested regions within Poonch. Moreover, it has been reported that unrestricted movement of people or groups poses significant risks to public safety due to challenging terrain, adverse weather, and other unforeseen dangers. Engaging in trekking, camping, hiking, and similar outdoor activities in these high-altitude locations may jeopardize public safety and could also result in law and order complications."
“Thus, I, Ashok Kumar Sharma, JKAS, the District Magistrate of Poonch, exercising the powers granted to me under section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, hereby declare that trekking, camping, hiking, and similar adventure activities are prohibited in all high-altitude areas of Poonch district with immediate effect. This restriction applies to all individuals, groups, tour operators, and adventure clubs unless prior written permission is obtained from the competent authority for official purposes,” the order detailed.
Exemptions are made for security forces, emergency services, and government officials on official duty.
The decree warns that any individual found in violation will be subject to legal action as per relevant laws.
“The Senior Superintendent of Police of Poonch is tasked with enforcing this order and overseeing movement at checkpoints,” the order emphasized.
A similar directive was previously issued by the District Magistrate of Kulgam concerning high-altitude and forested areas in the Kokernag sub-division.
This decision follows intensified anti-terror operations being conducted by J&K Police and security forces in the union territory’s high-altitude and densely forested regions.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the importance of public safety in light of security warnings. This decision reflects a proactive stance by authorities to safeguard citizens in a challenging environment. While this may affect outdoor activities, prioritizing safety is paramount.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why has trekking been banned in Poonch?
Trekking has been banned due to security concerns raised by local authorities regarding public safety in high-altitude forested areas.
Who is exempt from this ban?
Exemptions are granted to security forces, emergency services, and government officials on official duty.
What are the consequences of violating this order?
Individuals found violating this order may face legal action under the relevant provisions of law.
Is this ban permanent?
The ban is currently effective immediately, but further updates will depend on the security situation.
What should adventure clubs do?
Adventure clubs must seek prior written permission from authorities for any planned activities in the affected areas.
