Spl Exclusive Story;Blanket ban on plastic and non-biodegradable waste in high altitude areas of JK's Bhaderwah  Rs 50,000 fine and 1 month imprisonment  Slug-2507ZS_BHD_PLASTIC_BAN_R By Raja Rehber Jamal  Location-Bhaderwah  Anchor:—In a major step towards environmental conservation, the Forest Department has officially imposed a blanket ban on carrying, littering, dumping, or burning of plastic and non-biodegradable waste in all forest areas under the jurisdiction of the Bhadarwah Forest Division to preserve the beauty of the area as it's becoming famous among visitors from across country.    The move aims to protect the region’s rich biodiversity and fragile ecosystems, which have increasingly come under threat from human-induced pollution and irresponsible waste disposal practices. The ban also includes any activity that may cause environmental degradation or pollution within forest boundaries.   Forest officials stated that violators of the order will face strict legal action under relevant sections of the Indian Forest Act, Environment Protection Act, and other applicable laws. Divisional Forest Officer Bhaderwah, Devinder Kumar said that “this decision is crucial for preserving the ecological balance and natural beauty of our forests. Tourists and locals are urged to cooperate fully and support the department in maintaining a clean and green forest environment. "   Kumar added that “The Bhadarwah Forest Division is home to several endangered species and unique flora, making it imperative to curb any activity that could harm the ecosystem. The ban is expected to significantly reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices among visitors and residents he further added that”The forests of Bhaderwah are among the most ecologically sensitive and biodiversity-rich regions of Jammu and Kashmir.    "In an effort to protect these pristine landscapes, the Forest Department has imposed a complete ban on the carrying, littering, dumping, burning, or disposal of plastic and non-biodegradable waste within all forest areas under the jurisdiction of the Bhaderwah Forest Division, " he added.    Devinder Kumar said that “Specifically, the carrying of single-use plastics, polythene bags, disposable cups/plates, plastic wrappers, PET bottles, and all other non-biodegradable plastic items into forest areas is strictly prohibited,” he added.     He said that furthermore, littering, dumping, or burning of any such material—especially in High altitude meadows including Jai Valley, Chinta Valley, Guldanda, Padri, and Bal Padri—is banned with immediate effect.Any violation of this order shall invite strict legal action, including a fine up to ₹50,000 and/or imprisonment of up to one month under Section 10 of the J&K Non-Biodegradable Material (Management, Handling and Disposal) Act, 2007, read with SRO 243 dated 05-08-2011.   "we appeal to all locals, tourists, and pilgrims to cooperate and act responsibly. This initiative is not only about legal enforcement but about protecting our environment and securing the ecological future of Bhaderwah for the generations to come.”said DFO Bhaderwah Feed.  Shots  Byte of DFO Bhaderwah Devinder Kumar.  Regards Raja Rehber Jamal Chenab Valley E-mail :- rehberjamal12@gmail.com, rehberjamal12@rediffmail.com Mob:- 8803163150, 7006027038 , 7051440613