Budgam: Authorities in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district have registered an FIR after a video showing a group of social media influencers driving vehicles across fragile green pastures near the Breinwar forests went viral, sparking public outrage.
Officials said the case was filed under relevant sections of the Indian Forest Act (IFA) following a formal complaint by the Forest Department. The viral footage showed several vehicles driving through lush meadows, leaving visible tire marks and damaging the sensitive ecosystem.
Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, confirmed that strict legal action has been initiated against those involved. “We have taken the matter seriously. An FIR has been registered, and an investigation is underway to identify all participants in this unlawful act,” he said.
He added that the Forest Department has been instructed to prevent such incidents in the future and to conduct awareness campaigns highlighting the ecological importance of these meadows.
“The public is being cautioned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found damaging forest areas or engaging in illegal off-roading. These green pastures are ecologically sensitive and must be preserved,” the Deputy Commissioner warned.
Forest Department officials said they are coordinating with the police to identify the vehicles involved and assess the extent of environmental damage. The area, part of a protected forest zone, prohibits any vehicle movement without prior official permission.
