Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have imposed restrictions on trekking in upper forest areas near Gulmarg, citing public safety and security concerns following an unauthorized trekking incident. Non-local tourists are prohibited from entering these areas, while locals require permission. This advisory has caused anxiety among tourism stakeholders, particularly after a recent decline in footfall, though Kashmir tourism is showing signs of revival with Gulmarg experiencing full hotel occupancy. The forest department stated that only one tree was felled by smugglers, denying reports of mass felling.