Pahalgam: The Pahalgam Development Authority (PDA) has rolled out a strict “one license, one horse” policy, triggering a backlash from local pony operators.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of PDA, Mir Nasrool Hilal Jeri, said the decision comes in response to growing complaints about overcrowding, mismanagement, and the unregulated movement of horses in the tourist hub.
He said multiple horses being operated under a single license had led to congestion on popular routes, creating inconvenience for tourists and raising safety concerns.
“As part of the new regulations, every licensed operator will now be permitted to manage only one horse,” the CEO said, adding that the move is intended to ensure accountability, maintain discipline, and improve the overall functioning of pony services in the area.
In addition to the licensing restriction, the PDA has made it mandatory for horse operators to wear proper uniforms and strictly adhere to designated routes identified for pony rides.
Authorities believe that standardising operations will not only enhance tourist confidence but also help in better monitoring of services.
To enforce the new rules on the ground, four dedicated enforcement teams have already been deployed across key locations in Pahalgam. Officials said more teams could be added in the coming days if required, indicating that the administration is serious about ensuring full compliance.
However, the decision has not gone down well with pony riders, many of whom rely on operating multiple horses to earn enough income during the peak tourism season.
The operators argue that the policy could severely impact their livelihoods, especially in a region where tourism is a primary source of income for hundreds of families.
“This is injustice and tantamount to depriving us of our right to earn a living,” several pony riders said, expressing strong resentment against the move.
They said that many families have invested heavily in maintaining multiple horses and depend on them to meet daily expenses, particularly given the limited duration of the tourist season.
The aggrieved operators have appealed to the authorities to reconsider the decision and adopt a more balanced approach.
They suggested that instead of imposing strict limitations, the PDA should explore alternative measures such as opening additional trekking and riding routes, improving infrastructure, and creating more opportunities for pony operators to sustain their businesses.
“We are not against regulation, but it should not come at the cost of our survival,” one of the riders said, urging the administration to engage with stakeholders before implementing such policies—(KNO)
