SRINAGAR: Authorities in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district have registered an FIR after a viral video showed a group of social media influencers driving vehicles across ecologically fragile pastures near the Breinwar forests, sparking public outrage on social media.
Officials said the case has been filed under relevant sections of the Indian Forest Act (IFA) following a complaint lodged by the Forest Department. The viral footage showed multiple vehicles being driven over lush green meadows, leaving deep tire marks and causing visible damage to the delicate ecosystem.
Deputy Commissioner Budgam Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat confirmed that legal action has been initiated.
“We have taken the matter seriously. An FIR has been registered, and an investigation is underway to identify all persons who participated in this unlawful activity,” he said.
Bhat added that the Forest Department has been directed to ensure such violations are not repeated. Awareness campaigns will also be launched to educate locals and tourists about the ecological importance of these meadows.
“The public is being warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found engaging in illegal off-roading or damaging forest areas. The green pastures are ecologically sensitive and must be protected,” the Deputy Commissioner emphasized.
Officials from the Forest Department said they are working with police to identify the vehicles involved and assess the extent of environmental damage. The area falls under a protected forest belt, where vehicular movement without official permission is strictly prohibited.
