Srinagar, Feb. 21 -- The breathtaking landscapes of Kashmir, known for their pristine snow-capped peaks, are facing an environmental crisis due to rising pollution caused by trekkers.

As adventure tourism gains popularity, the increasing footfall in Kashmir's fragile ecosystems is contributing to pollution, which experts say is affecting snow accumulation patterns.

Popular trekking routes like Tarsar Marsar, Kolahoi Glacier, and the Great Lakes Trail attract hundreds of adventure seekers every year. However, the unchecked rise in foot traffic is leaving behind a trail of plastic waste, carbon emissions from camping equipment, and soil degradation, all of which impact the local climate.

Trekking groups often carry non-biodegradable mate...