The growing influx of tourists in Himalayan states has breached their ecological carrying capacity, leading to significant man-made disasters. What measures can be implemented to prevent such disasters while promoting sustainable tourism? Discuss with relevant examples. (Answer in 250 words)

Tourism in Himalayan states have increased drastically due to disposable income, infrastructure creation and post covid 'average tourism' (to go out, explore). But it has added huge stress on ecological carrying capacity Issue and man made disasters: 1) Hotels, resorts and infrastructure on ghats created but problem of landslides (Shimla Landslide 2021) 2) Heavy rainfall combined with cloud burst, land subsidence (to Kedarnath floods, Joshimath incidence 3) Pollution, collection of waste, outbreak of disease etc.

Measures to prevent such disaster and promote sustainable tourism: 1) NMSHE → National Mission on Sustaining himalayan ecosystem to be adopted and followed → a) Balancing growth and ecology b) Mapping of resources and capacity. 2) Hazard zonation and using GIS technology (Geospatial and geographical) to create information and allocate plan 3) Construction and zoning requisites to be followed 4) Promoting Homestays, farmstays, tenthouses → local indigenous home/shelters (Dhajji Diwari in Jammu-Kashmir) 5) Charging sustainable tourism maintenance fees to limit influx (Bhutan charges 70 dollar per day. 6) Strict enforcement of plans and breaking down illegal structures. 7) Sensitive zones near rivers, ghats etc must be regulated. 8) Digital technology to give tourism information on 'EWS' early warning system 9) Local communities to be engaged and Panchayat Raj so that proper decision can be taken. 10) Develop alternative tourist destinations by 'Mission mode' and using strategies to divert from popular destinations. 11) Create infrastructure based on E2A (environment impact assessment).

— Dishant Amrutlal Nisar · AIR 19