Bilal Bhat
Baramulla 6 February 2026: Amid the allegations of extortion, overcharging and unauthorised enforcement on the Tangmarg–Gulmarg tourist corridor, the Baramulla police have clarified that no individual or private group has the authority to stop vehicles or compel the use of snow chains without a lawful advisory.
While speaking to Awami Reporter, Superintendent of Police Baramulla Gurinderpal Singh (IPS) said that no individual or group has the authority to stop vehicles or compel drivers and tourists to hire snow chains unless such directions are issued under lawful traffic or safety advisories. He made it clear that any such act amounts to extortion and unlawful interference in public movement.
The SSP said police will take note of complaints and videos circulating on social media in which some local is allegedly seen being forced to install snow chains despite clear road conditions, with some individuals demanding money and threatening commuters. He said such behaviour would not be tolerated under any circumstances, particularly in a sensitive tourist zone like Gulmarg.
Allegations of overcharging and coercive practices have surfaced along the Tangmarg–Gulmarg road, with tourists and local visitors claiming they are being stopped by private individuals who insist that vehicles cannot proceed without snow chains, even when the road surface is largely dry at several stretches. According to multiple accounts, drivers are compelled to rent chains or change vehicles altogether.
Tourists allege they are being charged ₹300 per day, at ₹150 per chain, while in some cases they are allegedly asked to switch vehicles at additional costs ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹15,00. Several visitors maintained that no official advisory or traffic police directive was cited at the time they were stopped.
Mr Anurag Jain, a tourist visiting Gulmarg, said the road was mostly clear when his vehicle was intercepted. “There was no visible snow at many places. Still, we were told we could not move without chains. The demand was made by private individuals, not police personnel,” he said.
Local visitor Waseem Ahmad Dar echoed similar concerns, stating that residents familiar with the road conditions are also being subjected to the same treatment. “It has become a routine problem during the tourist season,” he said.
A member of the Hotelier Association of Kashmir, wishing anonymity, said such practices are causing distress among visitors and adversely affecting the tourism sector. “Hotels are receiving repeated calls from guests complaining of harassment on the road. These incidents seriously damage Kashmir’s image as a tourist-friendly destination,” the member said.
Meanwhile, a video circulating on social media appears to show a local driver being stopped and asked to use snow chains despite disputing the requirement. The footage also shows heated exchanges, with the driver alleging intimidation and threats. While the authenticity of the video could not be independently verified, it has triggered widespread discussion and concern online.
Legal experts pointed out that only authorised agencies, including the traffic police or district administration, can mandate the use of snow chains based on weather and road conditions. They said forcing motorists to rent equipment without an official order may amount to coercion and overcharging, attracting provisions under criminal law and the Motor Vehicles Act if established.
Residents and tourism stakeholders have urged the administration to issue clear and transparent advisories regarding snow chain requirements and ensure that enforcement, where necessary, is carried out strictly by authorised personnel. They have also called for strict action against any unauthorised individuals found stopping vehicles or demanding money from tourists.
Officials from the district administration could not be reached for comment at the time of filing this report.
