Srinagar, June 23: A video showing a tourist driving a Toyota Fortuner through a stretch of the Jhelum River in Kashmir has gone viral on social media, triggering widespread criticism over safety risks, environmental concerns, and irresponsible tourist behaviour.

The footage, shared widely on platform X, shows the SUV moving through the flowing river while the driver appears to be filming the stunt from inside the vehicle. Bystanders standing on the riverbank were also seen recording the incident as it unfolded.
Despite uneven terrain and flowing water, the vehicle managed to cross the stretch without visible damage. However, the act has sparked a heated debate online, with users questioning the need for such risky behaviour in a sensitive natural environment.
Many social media users condemned the stunt, calling it reckless and dangerous. Several demanded strict action against the driver, including fines and impounding of the vehicle, arguing that such acts encourage copycat behaviour and put lives at risk.
Critics also raised environmental concerns, warning that driving through river ecosystems like the Jhelum—historically known as Vitasta—could contribute to pollution and disturb the fragile aquatic environment.
Some users blamed popular advertisements showcasing SUVs as “water-wading” vehicles for encouraging such behaviour, saying people often attempt to replicate what they see in commercials without considering real-world risks.
While no injuries or damage were reported, the incident has reignited discussions around responsible tourism in Kashmir and the need for stricter enforcement of rules in ecologically sensitive areas.
Authorities had not issued any official statement on the incident at the time of reporting.