Srinagar, July 30 -- Srinagar- In a major step towards protecting ecologically sensitive tourist destinations, the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department has issued a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the management of solid waste in and around tourist destinations falling within or adjoining Reserve Forests.

The circular, issued by Chief Conservator of Forests Kashmir, Irfan Rasool Wani, a copy of which lies with Kashmir Observer, lays down a 10-point action plan aimed at scientific waste management, reducing plastic pollution and conserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

According to the SOP, all major tourist destinations will have destination-specific master plans incorporating carrying-capacity assessments to regu...