Gulmarg, a renowned ski destination in Indian-administered Kashmir, faces the challenge of overtourism as visitor numbers soar during the winter season. Last year, approximately 3 million tourists, including 43,000 foreigners, visited the disputed Himalayan territory, marking a 9% increase from the previous year. While tourism contributes an estimated 7% to the region's GDP of around US$28 billion, the influx of visitors has taken a toll on the environment.
To address the challenges of overtourism, the tourism department has identified 75 new tourist spots. A new policy is anticipated soon to mitigate the impact. Despite efforts to manage waste, caretakers collect over 2,000 kilograms of litter daily from hotels, motels, and vendors. Although plastic use is banned in Kashmir, enforcement remains inadequate.
“There is a dire need that tourism policy of Kashmir should be now… revised in consideration of new tourist places or spots that have come up … (and) footfall that can be (absorbed) by these tourist resorts,” – Aijaz Rasool
The region's climate has also suffered due to overtourism and environmental neglect. Tree destruction and ongoing construction have disrupted the natural balance, resulting in an 87% rainfall deficit in the Kashmir Valley in January. Heaps of plastic waste are visible at popular tourist spots such as Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Yusmarg, and Doodhpathri.
“Kashmir is beautiful. To maintain its beauty, locals as well as tourists need to keep the environment (clean). It is because of the clean environment and beauty that people from different regions visit here,” – Ravi Baghel
The issue of overtourism is not confined to Gulmarg alone; other towns in Jammu and Kashmir grapple with similar problems. The pristine environment and scenic beauty draw tourists from various regions, but sustained neglect could tarnish this allure.
“The solution lies with both citizens and the government. Plastic use is banned in Kashmir, but enforcement is lacking,” – Rouf Tramboo
Enforcement of environmental regulations remains a significant challenge. Experts suggest that stricter measures must be employed.
“If authorities start imposing fines, others will follow, and the problem can be resolved.” – Rouf Tramboo
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