Intro (Micro Notes Format):
Himalayan states like J&K, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand face rising ecological stress due to unregulated tourism, surpassing their ecological carrying capacity—the environment’s ability to sustain activity without degradation.
Critical Evaluation:
- Rapid Tourism Growth:
- Millions visit pilgrimage and hill stations yearly (e.g., Vaishno Devi, Shimla, Char Dham).
- Infrastructure struggles to cope with seasonal tourist influx.
- Strain on Natural Resources:
- Excessive groundwater extraction, deforestation, and construction.
- Overuse of water and energy resources by tourists.
- Waste Generation & Pollution:
- Solid waste, plastic, and untreated sewage pollute rivers (e.g., Beas, Ganga).
- Air and noise pollution from traffic congestion.
- Landslides and Disasters:
- Reckless road building and hotel construction trigger landslides.
- 2013 Kedarnath disaster partially linked to tourism-related environmental stress.
- Cultural and Biodiversity Loss:
- Encroachment on sacred groves and wildlife zones.
- Human-wildlife conflict and biodiversity decline.
Way Forward:
- Promote eco-tourism and carrying capacity assessments.
- Implement visitor caps, zoning regulations, waste management, and sustainable infrastructure.
- Local community participation and seasonal tourism dispersal.
Conclusion:
Unregulated tourism in Himalayan states risks long-term ecological collapse. A balance between economic benefits and environmental sustainability is essential for future resilience.
