Srinagar, February 24 The state unit of the BJP on Tuesday criticized Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah over his plan to create an artificial snow pitch in Gulmarg, saying the government has "failed" to protect the environment.
Speaking at a press conference here, BJP spokesperson Abhijeet Jasrotia attacked the government over what he termed "complete inaction" on environmental protection, and said that Kashmir is experiencing warming at an alarming rate.
"At a time when we need extensive greenery and forest protection, the chief minister is talking about artificial snow and cooling. These are cosmetic measures and potentially dangerous for sports lovers and the fragile Himalayan ecosystem," Jasrotia said.
Abdullah had on Monday advocated introducing artificial snow in Gulmarg to boost tourism and promote the destination as a winter sports hub.
However, the BJP alleged that during the past one-and-a-half years, the Omar Abdullah government has "failed" to safeguard the region's green cover.
"Trees are being cut in the name of development, but there is no serious effort to restore what is being lost. We are gradually losing our natural cooling shield," he said.
He accused the government of lacking a clear climate action strategy and prioritizing "public relations exercises over environmental protection".
The BJP spokesperson said unregulated urban expansion, road widening projects, and shrinking orchards are contributing to ecological imbalance.
"Instead of taking decisive steps to protect Kashmir's forests and wetlands, the government appears content enjoying the hot seat," he added.
The BJP claimed that under the National Conference government, deforestation, wetland degradation, and unchecked construction have increased, and "this could worsen heatwaves, reduce snowfall, and impact tourism and horticulture".
Calling for mass public participation, Jasrotia proposed a symbolic plantation campaign.
"On Eid, every child should receive a Chinar sapling as a gift and plant it. This will send a powerful message about preserving our heritage and securing our future," he said.
He demanded a time-bound afforestation programme, strict audit of development projects involving tree cutting, and the revival of wetlands and traditional water bodies, warning that failure to act could push Kashmir toward irreversible environmental damage.