Unregulated Tourism Takes a Toll on Kashmir’s Fragile Ecosystem
By: Javid Amin
Nestled in the northern part of India, Kashmir is known for its breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, and majestic mountains. Often referred to as “Paradise on Earth,” this region has long been a favorite destination for tourists seeking natural beauty and tranquility. However, the surge in tourism over the past few years has put immense pressure on Kashmir’s delicate ecosystem. Without sustainable tourism practices, experts fear that Kashmir’s natural beauty could crumble under the weight of its own popularity.
A Surge in Tourism: Boon or Bane?
Record-Breaking Tourist Influx In the past two years alone, Kashmir has seen an unprecedented surge in tourism, attracting over 5.7 million visitors. According to data from the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, Kashmir welcomed 3.155 million tourists in 2023, up from 2.673 million in 2022 and 665,000 in 2021. This year, amid a sweltering heatwave across the country in May and June, tourists once again flocked to Kashmir. Media reports indicate that over 1.5 million tourists, including 25,914 foreign visitors, have already visited Kashmir so far, and 2024 is poised to break all previous records.
Economic Boost vs. Environmental Setback The substantial increase in tourist numbers in Kashmir has undeniably spurred economic transformation in the region, yet it has concurrently presented significant environmental challenges. Homestays, guest houses, and hotels across the Kashmir Valley, including Srinagar, are fully booked, reflecting the economic benefits of tourism. However, the flip side of this economic boom is the mounting pressure on Kashmir’s fragile ecosystem.
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Environmental Impact of Unregulated Tourism
Pollution and Waste Management Issues A scientist from Kashmir University highlighted that while tourists earlier did not adversely impact water bodies, glaciers, and forests, the current unregulated tourism and significant increase in plastic usage have led to widespread pollution. The absence of proper waste management exacerbates the issue, resulting in the burning of plastic in beautiful meadows and mountains. This practice not only pollutes the air but also leaves toxic residues that harm the soil and water bodies.
Case Study: Pahalgam Mushtaq Ahmad Magrey, an environmental activist, noted that the unregulated influx of tourists is taking a toll on major tourist destinations such as Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Yusmarg, Sonamarg, and Doodhpathri. Pahalgam, also known as the “Valley of Shepherds,” has a carrying capacity of about 5,000 tourists but often sees numbers soar to 20,000 due to official apathy and mismanagement. This overcapacity puts tremendous strain on local resources and infrastructure, leading to water scarcity, power crises, soil erosion, and increased pollution.
Garbage Crisis
Inadequate Waste Treatment One of the most visible impacts of unregulated tourism is the garbage problem. Inadequate facilities lead to the dumping of unprocessed trash at designated sites. Despite repeated cleanliness drives by the government, tourism stakeholders, and volunteers, heaps of plastic waste continue to be visible at globally famous tourist destinations in the Valley. Wajahat Ahmad, a medical practitioner in Srinagar, expressed dismay over widespread littering on Srinagar’s Boulevard Road along the Dal Lake. He noted that the infrastructure to manage the influx of tourists is lacking, resulting in frequent traffic jams and pervasive litter.
The Role of Infrastructure The strain on infrastructure is evident in the daily lives of residents. What used to be a 15-minute commute now takes an hour due to frequent traffic jams caused by the increased number of tourists. This congestion not only disrupts daily life but also contributes to air pollution. If tourism remains unregulated and sustainable practices are not prioritized, littering might become rampant, and the quality of life for locals could deteriorate further.
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Water Bodies Under Threat
Vanishing Water Bodies According to a study by Srinagar’s Directorate of Environment, Ecology, and Remote Sensing, over 50 percent of the water bodies in and around Srinagar city have vanished over the past century. Despite the government spending Rs. 759 crore between 2002 and 2018 on the preservation of the Dal Lake, its condition has worsened, with the lake now congested with plastic debris and contaminated by sewage.
Pollution in Lakes and Rivers Magrey noted that the influx of tourists has exacerbated pollution in Kashmir’s lakes and rivers, posing a serious threat to the delicate alpine ecosystem, local biodiversity, and natural habitats. The Dal Lake, once spanning 75 square kilometers, has dwindled to just 10 square kilometers over the past two decades. Similarly, Jammu & Kashmir lost more than 4,000 hectares of tree cover between 2001 and 2022, representing a 0.38 percent decrease since 2000.
The Consequences of Unregulated Tourism
Geological and Environmental Challenges Situated in seismic zones IV and V of the Himalayas, Kashmir is susceptible to frequent tectonic activity. Environmentalists have warned of catastrophic consequences if substantial modifications are made to the mountains, such as cutting into them for road construction and building hotels in higher reaches. The lack of planning in the construction process at tourism destinations has led to haphazard development in unlikely locations, with many hotels prioritizing maximum room capacity over environmental considerations.
Impact on Agriculture The environmental degradation caused by unregulated tourism also affects agriculture, a critical sector for the region. Government data show that saffron acreage in Kashmir has dwindled from 5,707 hectares in 1996 to around 3,500 hectares in 2017, primarily due to climate change and pollution. Saffron production also plummeted from 15.85 million tonnes in 1997 to 9.6 million tonnes in 2017. If pollution around glaciers is not controlled, the Amarnath Yatra, a sacred journey for Hindus, could be jeopardized, with the shivling, an ice stalagmite, failing to form or melting away prematurely.
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The Way Forward: Sustainable Tourism Practices
Immediate Action Required Muzaffar Bhat, a climate activist, warned that unless immediate action is taken, the region’s tourist spots will soon be overwhelmed with trash, leading to a collapse of the tourism industry. The current administration and bureaucrats are ignoring the severe environmental challenges caused by unregulated tourism. Sustainable tourism practices must be adopted to mitigate the environmental impact and ensure the survival of Kashmir’s natural beauty.
Eco-Friendly Infrastructure Development In 2012, the Department of Ecology, Environment, and Remote Sensing issued warnings about the urgent need to mitigate the environmental damage caused by unplanned construction in Sonamarg. The department emphasized the importance of eco-friendly infrastructure development to preserve its fragile ecology while meeting tourism needs. Each tourist destination in Kashmir should undergo scientific evaluation to determine its carrying capacity, ensuring that visitor numbers are regulated accordingly.
Community Involvement and Education Community involvement and education are crucial for promoting sustainable tourism practices. Tourists should be educated about the importance of respecting the environment and adhering to regulations, such as avoiding plastic use and littering. Local communities should be empowered to manage waste and protect natural resources effectively.
Promotion of Lesser-Known Destinations To alleviate overcrowding at major tourist destinations, the government should develop sufficient infrastructure in lesser-known tourist spots. This approach would distribute the tourist load more evenly and reduce the strain on popular destinations. Promoting these lesser-known spots can enhance the visitor experience and preserve the beauty of Kashmir’s renowned locations.
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Bottom-line
Kashmir’s unparalleled beauty and rich cultural heritage make it a coveted destination for tourists from around the world. However, the unregulated influx of tourists poses significant threats to the region’s fragile ecosystem. To ensure that Kashmir remains a paradise for future generations, it is imperative to implement sustainable tourism practices that balance economic benefits with environmental conservation. By adopting eco-friendly infrastructure, regulating tourist numbers, and promoting community involvement, we can protect Kashmir’s natural beauty and secure a sustainable future for this enchanting region.
Call to Action We urge policymakers, tourism stakeholders, and tourists alike to prioritize sustainable tourism practices. By minimizing plastic use, promoting electric transport, and respecting local regulations, we can all contribute to preserving Kashmir’s unique environment. Let’s work together to ensure that the natural beauty of Kashmir continues to inspire and captivate generations to come.
