Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Mar 22: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG) today raised concerns over the proposed use of SP College Ground for a private commercial exhibition, demanding the immediate revocation of permission granted.
In a statement, EPG said it learned through public advertisements that Minds-Media Management Pvt. Ltd. has been permitted to hold the “WAC – World of Architecture and Construction Expo” at the historic college ground from May 3-5, 2025.
“EPG strongly objects to this blatant misappropriation of educational and recreational space for commercial purposes.”
It emphasized that SP College Ground is an educational and sports facility meant for students’ physical development, not a venue for profit-driven exhibitions.
EPG warned that such usage would damage the turf and infrastructure, requiring taxpayer-funded rehabilitation while the private entity reaps profits.
It also cautioned that setting such a precedent could turn educational institutions into commercial venues, undermining their primary function.
Environmental concerns were raised regarding the event’s heavy footfall, vehicular movement, temporary structures, and waste generation, which would impact one of Srinagar’s few green spaces.
“It is incomprehensible how a private commercial entity was granted permission to use this academic facility when numerous other appropriate venues exist in Srinagar.”
EPG has demanded an immediate revocation of the permission and an inquiry into how it was granted.
It has already communicated its concerns to Education Minister Sakeena Itoo, Additional Chief Secretary & Financial Commissioner Education Shantmanu and other officials, seeking urgent intervention.
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