In a major move to protect its fragile ecosystem, the Gilgit-Baltistan government has announced a complete ban on the construction and expansion of hotels and motels near lakes and rivers.
According to official notifications issued by the local administration, the ban will apply to popular tourist areas such as Attabad Lake, Borit Lake, Duikar, and other ecologically sensitive zones in the Hunza and Baltistan regions.
Authorities say the decision was made in response to increasing concerns over water pollution, illegal construction, and environmental degradation caused by unregulated tourism growth. Reports had earlier surfaced of untreated sewage being released into lakes and rivers from nearby hotels, posing serious risks to public health and wildlife.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of Gilgit-Baltistan had also recommended urgent action after inspections revealed multiple violations of environmental standards.
Under the new rules:
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No new No Objection Certificates (NOCs) will be issued for hotel construction near lakes or rivers.
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Expansion of existing hotels in restricted areas will also be prohibited.
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Enforcement teams have been directed to monitor compliance and take strict action against violators.
The government aims to promote eco-friendly tourism and encourage sustainable development that preserves the natural beauty of the region for future generations.
This initiative has been widely praised by environmental activists and locals concerned about the growing impact of mass tourism on Gilgit-Baltistan’s unique landscape.
