Unscientific, unmindful and unregulated tourism in the ecologically fragile areas has in-creased the vulnerabilities of these regions towards a plethora of disasters. Examine the statement and suggest strategies for sustainable tourism. (15 marks, 250 words)

The Kedarnath flash floods of 2013 reminded us of the grave consequence of unregulated, unmindful and unscientific tourism in ecologically fragile areas. Unscientific, unregulated tourism result in: (1) Assessing population inertial on fragile regions. (2) Unregulated development (3) Unsustainable waste generation (4) Deforestation, encroachment of natural habitat for or in the name of infrastructure development.

Strategy for sustainable tourism (1) Ecotourism: that promote ecology health for tourist development. (2) Promotion of circular economy in tourist sites to reduce waste onus. (3) Limiting tourist entry. [EIA] - In Nainital, tourist entry is rationed during peak season. (4) Taking case of fauna and flora. [EIA] - Bamboo Bridge for reptiles to cross highway in Nainital - Haldwani highway. Thus, tourism and ecological health can go hand in hand with joint effort of all stakeholders.