In recent times, two significant disasters struck popular tourist spots in India: Joshimath in Uttarakhand and Wayanad in Kerala.
The Wayanad Landslide: On July 30, 2024, picturesque villages Chooralmala and Mundakkai in Wayanad were devastated by three massive landslides following heavy rainfall. According to World Weather Attribution, climate change worsened the rainfall by 10%. A rescue team of 190 members, including various services and volunteers, faced challenges reaching the remotest areas. Over 400 people lost their lives, and many remain missing.
Joshimath’s Sinking: In early 2023, Joshimath, a major pilgrimage and tourism centre, began to sink. This land subsidence caused dangerous cracks in buildings and roads, leading to the evacuation of around 4,000 residents.
Causes of Disasters: Both areas face heavy infrastructure development and overtourism. In Wayanad, construction projects like roads and dams disturb the natural landscape, making landslides more likely. Similarly, big projects in Joshimath, including hydropower plants and expanded roads, aggravate the issue. Overtourism adds stress to these regions, with more hotels and roads increasing the risk of landslides in Wayanad and construction pressure in Joshimath.
Climate Change: Human activities speeding up climate change also play a role. Warming seas and increased rainfall in regions like Wayanad intensify these natural disasters.
Coastal Regulation and Concerns: Changes in Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules have allowed more construction near beaches, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Goa and Kerala. This has led to faster beach erosion, habitat destruction, and pollution.
Sustainable Tourism: Emphasizing eco-tourism, sustainable and responsible tourism is crucial. This approach helps protect the environment and supports local communities by minimizing harm and promoting conservation efforts.
Educational Importance: Teaching children about these ecological issues and tourism impacts fosters a deeper connection with nature and an understanding of the need for sustainable development. Initiatives like the Char Dham Yatra project and the Gadgil Committee Report emphasize protecting sensitive areas and balancing development with nature conservation.
Original Story https://www.thehindu.com/children/a-guide-to-responsible-tourism/article68645649.ece
Category : Children
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