RC

Ritika Chitlangia

Question 16GS1GS1

Tourism in the hilly states is threatening to exceed the ecological carrying capacity of the region. Analyze the factors contributing to this trend and evaluate the potential Environmental impacts of this phenomenon. What measures can be taken to ensure sustainable tourism in these states?

Open scan (p.40)

Introduction

Hilly states of J&K, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, N.E states contribute to 20% of tourism earnings of the country. (Eco-survey 2022)

20 words

Main Body

Factors for Tourism:

1Picturesque lands capped => snow-capped peaks, adventure tourism => waterfalls, skiing, valleys etc => ideal getaway.
2Situated close to densely populated zones of Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, UP, Bihar, Himachal => Heavy tourist traffic.
3Pilgrimage tourism => 'Devi Dham', char dham,

Humkund Sahi's ice => huge pilgrimage groups visit himalayan shrines every year.

4Unsustainable infrastructure creation => ecologically fragile lands caped => historic activity

eg: land subsidence in Sonamarg.

Potential environmental impacts:

1Frequent landslides & landslips due to slope destabilisation, caused due to deforestation, infrastructure disruption etc.
2Loss of biodiversity => encroachment of forests, commercialisation of national parks & wildlife sanctuaries.
2Floods in himalayan rivers due to waste disposal => clogging of rivers.
4Climate change => rising fuel emissions => melting of glaciers => increase of GHG's etc.

Measures:

1Staggered tourist flow, in light of carrying capacity.
2Scientific assessment of infrastructure projects, including scenic care, economists environmental lists.
3Exploration of sustainable eco-tourism options.
4Sustainable modes of transport like ropeways etc.

Parvat Mala, National mission in sustainable himalayan ecosystem are few steps for protecting tourism in hilly states.

191 words16 paragraphs

Conclusion

Parvat Mala, National mission in sustainable himalayan ecosystem are few steps for protecting tourism in hilly states.

17 words

  • Good statistical reference (20% tourism earnings)
  • Clear enumeration of factors attracting tourism
  • Addresses specific pilgrimage sites

Topper

Ritika Chitlangia

Subject & Paper

GS1GS1

Topic

Important Geophysical Phenomena and Environmental Issues

Geophysical Phenomena and Tourism Impact

Ecological Carrying Capacity and Tourism Sustainability

Writing Stats

228

Total words

16

Paragraphs

analytical

Tone