Authorities in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir, have banned trekking, camping, and hiking in high altitude and forested areas like Kokernag due to security concerns. Recent incidents of individuals trying to cross checkpoints at night have raised serious safety issues, leading to the prohibition of outdoor activities in specific locations like Margan Top, Chauher Nag, and Sinthan Top. The order, issued by the Kokernag Sub-Divisional Magistrate, emphasizes the need to ensure public safety and security by restricting such activities.
The directive mandates the strict enforcement of the ban by the Larnoo Station House Officer and warns of legal consequences for any violations. The public is urged to adhere to the order, which will be effective for two months unless modified or extended as per the law. This move coincides with ongoing anti-terror operations in the higher regions of Poonch, Rajouri, and Kishtwar districts in Jammu division, targeting terrorists, their supporters, and sympathizers.
Joint security forces are conducting coordinated operations to dismantle the terrorism support network rather than solely focusing on armed militants. The connectivity between the Valley and Kishtwar district through Sinthan Top underscores the strategic significance of the Kokernag area in the region.
