Gulmarg, Jan 20: The Gulmarg Poni and Sledge Association Tuesday expressed concern against the vehicles being allowed to ferry tourists directly to the Gondola and other spots—threatening livelihoods of around 5,000 families dependent on their traditional businesses.
President of the Association during a peaceful protest said that they are being ignored by the local government. “We requested the MLAs of Gulmarg, Baramulla and Kreeri several times but nothing fruitful has come to fore”, he questioned.
“Where should these 5,000 families go that are dependent on the Poni and sledge business,” he questioned.
Meanwhile, the operators said, “The authorities are only bothered about the construction. They failed to take care of the persons associated with sledge and poni business,” the president added.
He said, “If they fail to deliver justice, we will be forced to come on the road within two weeks and the government will be responsible for that.”
Another protester said that they (Poni and Sledge) workers are registered. “From past 2-3 years, the affiliates have been facing severe issues and their livelihood has been hit badly.”
“Livelihood is our right. No matter what happens, we will launch a protest demonstration to press for our demands as nobody is bothered about us,” he said.
The association urged the district administration and CEO of Gulmarg Development Authority to intervene immediately and assure their livelihoods are protected—(KNO)
