Undoubtedly, tourism is one of the mainstays of J&K’s economy, however, the sector shouldn’t flourish at the cost of the environment. We have to understand that it’s the natural beauty of tourist destinations which attracts tourists. We have to respect the carrying capacity of tourist destinations.
Instead of making concrete jungles, we have to go for eco-tourism measures to save tourist destinations from destruction. Most of the tourist destinations in Kashmir especially Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Patnitop and Doodhpathri are facing immense environmental degradation due to unregulated tourist flow. The problem gets compounded in absence of proper garbage collection and its scientific disposal.
However, there is a silver lining. It is heartening that Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo directed the Tourism Development Authorities (TDAs) of the UT to ensure proper management of respective tourist destinations. The Chief Secretary took serious notice of the violations happening in tourist destinations due to illegal constructions in blatant violation of the Master Plan.
He stressed on the concerned authorities to have close vigil over their jurisdictions for strict enforcement of rules and necessary action against the violators. He also directed for demarcation of lands coming under their jurisdictions forthwith to ensure zero violations in these areas. There is a need to put in place proper solid waste management and sewage disposal in tourist destinations to prevent damage t.
