Influencers Booked for Driving on Fragile Meadows in Budgam

Budgam: Authorities in Budgam district have filed an FIR after a viral video showed a group of social media influencers driving vehicles over fragile green pastures near Breinwar forests.

Officials said the FIR was lodged under sections of the Indian Forest Act following a complaint from the Forest Department. The video, shared widely on social media, showed multiple vehicles damaging the grassland and leaving visible tire marks.

Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, said strict action is being taken. “An FIR has been registered and investigation is underway to identify everyone involved,” he said.

He added that the Forest Department has been directed to prevent such violations in the future and launch awareness drives about the ecological importance of the area.

“The public is warned against illegal off-roading or forest damage. These pastures are ecologically sensitive and need protection,” he said.

Forest officials said they are coordinating with police to identify the vehicles and assess the environmental damage. The area is part of a protected forest zone where vehicle movement without permission is banned.(KNT)