Context

In the collective imagination, Kashmir continues to be seen as a paradise, yet time has transformed its surroundings. The unyielding advance of urbanization and commercialization has severely impacted this once untouched haven. The effects of climate change are also becoming increasingly apparent.

Overview

• The tourism department of Jammu and Kashmir reported an extraordinary increase in visitors compared to previous years. The region drew over 21.1 million tourists in 2023, significantly boosting the local economy.
• Tourism subsidy in Jammu and Kashmir: A subsidy upto 40% of the total cost of the project would be provided to house owners for conversion of their private houses into paying guest houses subject to a ceiling of Rs. 2.00 lakh in each case.

Effects of new policy

• Ecological Stress: The surge in tourist numbers is straining Kashmir’s fragile ecological balance.
•  Policy Impact: The Jammu and Kashmir government’s tourism policy, aimed at projecting tranquillity post-dilution of special status, has led to significant environmental consequences.
• Visitor Statistics: Since the new tourism policy was introduced in 2020, over 40 million tourists have visited Kashmir, with 1.2 million arriving in the first half of 2024.
• Environmental Disturbances: Increased tourist activity, driven by efforts to highlight the Valley’s stability, is causing various ecological issues, including:
  • Pollution: Inadequate waste management is worsening pollution in waterbodies.
  • Ecosystem Strain: Promotion of pilgrimage tourism in areas like Pahalgam and Trikuta ranges is putting pressure on fragile ecosystems.
  • Deforestation: Uncontrolled tourism is leading to deforestation, waste build up, and unregulated construction.
• Historical Context: Unchecked tourism was a key factor in the devastating floods of 2014.
• Infrastructure Expansion: The influx of tourists is prompting the expansion of hotels, roads, and recreational facilities, encroaching on natural habitats and disrupting wildlife corridors.
• Resource Strain: Increased demand for water and electricity is stressing local resources, leading to:
  • Groundwater Depletion: Excessive withdrawal of groundwater is rapidly depleting aquifers.
  • Hydroelectric Projects: Greater electricity needs are leading to more hydroelectric projects, which can damage local aquatic ecosystems and disrupt hydrological balance.
•  Water Shortages: Many areas in Kashmir are experiencing severe drinking water shortages.
  • Glacial Melting: Faster glacier depletion due to climate change is exacerbating water scarcity.
  • Agricultural Drought: Below-average rainfall and erratic weather are leading to potential agricultural drought, affecting crop yields and threatening food security.

 A fragile region

•  Natural Disasters: Jammu and Kashmir is prone to natural disasters, including earthquakes, floods, landslides, and avalanches. It is situated in a seismically active zone.
• 2014 Floods: The catastrophic floods in 2014 caused extensive damage:
  • Destruction: Large parts of the Kashmir Valley were submerged.
  •  Impact: Infrastructure was severely damaged, and approximately five million people were affected (4.5 million in the Valley and 500,000 in Jammu).
  • Economic Loss: The State’s economy incurred an estimated loss of rs 5,400 crore to  rs 5,700 crore.
• 2022 Flash Floods: A cloudburst near Amaranth in 2022 led to flash floods that resulted in 16 deaths and 40 people missing.
• Tourism Infrastructure: Efforts to build roads to new tourist destinations, aimed at enhancing accessibility and economic growth, often disrupt fragile ecosystems.
• Caution for Kashmir: The incident in Wayanad serves as a cautionary tale for regions like Kashmir, which have delicate ecosystems. Wayanad Landslide -The 2023 landslide in Wayanad, Kerala, which claimed over 200 lives, highlights the dangers of unchecked commercialisation in ecologically sensitive areas.

Have a new model for tourism in Kashmir

• Tourism Appeal: Kashmir’s natural beauty attracts many tourists, but unchecked commercialisation through hotel and resort construction can lead to severe environmental consequences.
• Implementing a sustainable tourism model in Kashmir: involves several key strategies to ensure environmental protection, community involvement, and long-term viability, some approach could be as follow..
  • Eco-Friendly Practices
    • Waste Management: Establish robust waste management systems, including recycling programs and waste reduction initiatives.
    • Water Conservation: Implement water-saving measures such as efficient fixtures and rainwater harvesting systems.
    • Energy Efficiency: Promote the use of renewable energy sources (solar, wind) and energy-efficient technologies in tourism facilities.
  • Conservation Efforts
    • Biodiversity Protection: Develop and enforce regulations to protect local flora and fauna. Support conservation projects and wildlife corridors.
    • Protected Areas: Designate and maintain protected areas to preserve natural habitats and limit tourist impact.
  • Sustainable Infrastructure
    •  Green Building Standards: Encourage the construction of eco-friendly buildings that adhere to green building standards and use sustainable materials.
    •  Infrastructure Resilience: Build infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events and natural disasters.
  • Community Engagement
    • Local Involvement: Involve local communities in tourism planning and decision-making processes to ensure their needs and perspectives are considered.
    • Economic Opportunities: Provide training and support for locals to participate in and benefit from tourism, such as guiding, handicrafts, and hospitality services.
  • Responsible Tourism
    • Visitor Education: Educate tourists about the local environment, culture, and sustainable practices to promote responsible behaviour.
    • Regulations and Guidelines: Implement guidelines for tourists to minimize their environmental footprint, such as restrictions on certain areas and activities.
• Diversification and Seasonality
  • Off-Season Attractions: Develop attractions and activities that can draw visitors during off-peak seasons to reduce the pressure on the environment during peak times.
  • Cultural and Eco-Tourism: Promote diverse tourism experiences, such as cultural tours, eco-trekking, and community-based tourism, to reduce reliance on traditional tourism hotspots.
• Policy and Planning
  • Sustainable Tourism Policies: Formulate and enforce policies that prioritize sustainability in all aspects of tourism development.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation: Regularly assess the environmental and social impacts of tourism and adjust policies and practices accordingly.
• Collaboration and Partnerships
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with government bodies, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders to implement and support sustainable tourism practices.
  • International Best Practices: Adopt and adapt best practices from successful sustainable tourism models in other regions.
• Innovation and Technology
  • Smart Technologies: Utilize technology for monitoring environmental conditions, managing resources, and enhancing the visitor experience in a sustainable manner.
  • Data-Driven Decisions: Use data to make informed decisions about tourism management and environmental impact.

Benefits of sustainable model for Kashmir

• Environmental Benefits
  • Preservation of Natural Beauty: Sustainable practices help conserve the region's stunning landscapes, biodiversity, and natural resources.
  • Reduced Pollution: Efficient waste management, water conservation, and energy-saving measures minimize pollution and environmental degradation.
  • Ecosystem Protection: Limiting tourist impact helps protect fragile ecosystems, ensuring the survival of local flora and fauna.
• Economic Benefits
  • Long-Term Viability: By balancing development with conservation, Kashmir can ensure the long-term sustainability of its tourism industry.
  • Diversified Income Sources: Sustainable tourism creates diverse economic opportunities, reducing dependence on peak-season tourism and enhancing year-round income for local businesses.
  • Job Creation: Green tourism initiatives and eco-friendly infrastructure projects generate employment opportunities in various sectors.
• Social Benefits
  • Community Empowerment: Involving local communities in tourism planning and decision-making empowers them and ensures that they benefit from tourism revenue.
  • Cultural Preservation: Sustainable tourism supports the preservation of local traditions and cultural heritage, enhancing cultural pride and resilience.
  • Enhanced Quality of Life: Improved infrastructure and environmental conditions contribute to a better quality of life for residents.
• Resilience and Adaptability
  • Infrastructure Resilience: Sustainable infrastructure is designed to withstand extreme weather and natural disasters, reducing vulnerability and enhancing safety.
  • Economic Resilience: Diversified tourism offerings and responsible practices make the local economy more resilient to fluctuations in tourist numbers and external shocks.
• Global Recognition and Appeal
  • Enhanced Reputation: A focus on sustainability enhances Kashmir’s reputation as a responsible and attractive tourism destination, potentially increasing global appeal and attracting discerning travellers.
  • Partnership Opportunities: Sustainable practices open doors for partnerships with international conservation organizations, NGOs, and other stakeholders.

Conclusion

By integrating these strategies and embracing a sustainable tourism model, Kashmir can protect its unique natural and cultural assets while ensuring that tourism contributes positively to the region's long-term development and prosperity.

Source: THE HINDU