Uri, June 2: Local and non-local visitors travelling to Limber waterfall in Babagail village of Boniyar tehsil of Uri in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district have sought uninterrupted movement to the destination.
A delegation of local visitors told Greater Kashmir that they are being required to obtain permission from various authorities.
“I received two groups today who wished to visit the waterfall but we were denied permission,” stated Farhaan Lone, a local of Bijhama, Uri who also operates Pir Panjal Adventure Club- a group dedicated to promoting tourism in the border region.
He explained that the wildlife department has informed them that they can only go up to Babagail village, not to the waterfall. “To reach the waterfall, they have instructed us to obtain permission from local police or army authorities,” he said.
Lone expressed disappointment, stating, “It is unfortunate that the wildlife department overseeing this area is not permitting visitors to see this amazing asset of Uri.” Lone who is also a vlogger and has made multiple vlogs on Uri’s natural beauty.
“We want that there should be a single and separate department who will manage permissions for the waterfall same as the Kaman Post visit pattern,” he emphasised.
Limber waterfall has garnered attention recently with numerous vlogs showcasing its mesmerising beauty and gaining popularity on Instagram. Located approximately 20 kilometers from Boniyar tehsil, it sits nestled amidst the silent mountains of the area. The waterfall lies in the premises of Limber wildlife sanctuary.
Farhan Lone, a local guide in Babagail village, highlighted that smooth movement of the visitors is vital for his livelihood. “If visitors are permitted to visit the waterfall, I guide them along the route and in return I get to earn. This is employment for me,” he said.
“Uri has a rich potential of becoming an international level tourist destination. But the key concern is hassle-free movement to all the tourist destinations. It will generate employment to locals of the region,” said Moeen Geelani, a resident of Chandanwari, a nearby village, who also promotes the region’s beauty through his social media handles. Intisar Suhail, Wildlife Warden North Kashmir told Greater Kashmir they have commenced issuing permissions to visitors.
“Visitors can apply for permissions via WhatsApp number – 9419049275, and it will be issued from Wildlife north office in Sopore,” he said adding, “Applications must be submitted on the official working days and at least two days prior to the planned visit.”
He said that they are working on the issuance of permits for visitors in Uri only. “We have taken up this with the higher ups and once it is approved, it will become a smooth affair for the visitors,” he said.
A senior police official in Boniyar said that they issue the permissions. “But it is subject to verification from their local police station first,” he said.