Chapter 4 :Sustainable Tourism

Introduction

• Due to the potential for massive cash generation and the provision of employment possibilities, tourism has received widespread recognition as a significant business in the Ladakh district.
• Several people employed in related businesses, such as transportation, accommodation, catering, cottage industry, etc., as well as the socioeconomic sector of the area are directly impacted by the tourism industry.
• But harsh climate change consequences are putting local lives in peril, and tourism places a significant burden on the fragile ecosystem's natural resources.
• For the past 20 years, snowfall has reduced significantly as a result of the glaciers' rapid melting.
• The pattern of rain has also changed.
• Ladakh's long-term viability is also under question due to flash floods brought on by cloud bursts in the Leh-Ladakh region.

Tourism Potential

• Ladakh, Jammu, and Kashmir are the three separate areas. In all three areas, there is tremendous potential for tourism from both domestic and international travellers.
• Its effects can be seen in small-scale manufacturing, horticulture, transportation, hospitality, and hospitality-related industries.
• Kashmir is renowned for being "heaven on earth" and has long been a popular travel destination.
• Due to the abundance of snow-capped mountains, rivers, and freshwater lakes in the area, it is also referred to as the "Switzerland of the East."
• Visitors are drawn to the area because there are so many things to buy there.

Government Initiatives

• The Ladakh government has taken on the responsibility of garbage management in an effort to protect the environment.
• With an emphasis on adventure, culture, and responsible tourism, the Central Government is also attempting to promote Ladakh as a tourist destination.
• Under the Ministry of Tourism's Swadesh Darshan and PRASHAD Schemes, seven projects totaling Rs 594 crores have been approved for J&K and Ladakh.
• As a result, Ladakh is anticipated to become a high-value, low-impact tourist destination that promotes inclusive and sustainable growth for the local population.
• The goal is to increase tourism in Ladakh in order to bring in visitors from India and other countries while also promoting Ladakh's culture and goods locally

Sustainability in Tourism

• The United Nations World Tourist Organization (UNWTO) states that sustainable travel should:
• Make the most of environmental resources, which are essential to the growth of the tourism industry, while supporting vital ecological processes, biodiversity preservation, and the protection of natural heritage.
• Preserve the host communities' sociocultural authenticity by preserving their traditional values as well as their built and live cultural heritage. and encourage tolerance and understanding amongst cultures.
• Promote long-term economic viability by equally sharing socioeconomic benefits with all stakeholders, including opportunities for stable employment and income production, social services for host communities, and assisting in the fight against poverty.
Issues in Sustainable tourism
• The tourism sector in areas like Ladakh depends on portraying a picture of a pristine natural setting, however the majority of tourists in these areas pay little attention to the delicate environment and cultural sensitivities of the area.
• They produce tonnes of rubbish each year, damaging the environment, harming people, and destroying the area's natural beauty.
Way forward
• The tourism sector in areas like Ladakh depends on portraying a picture of a pristine natural setting, however the majority of tourists in these areas pay little attention to the delicate environment and cultural sensitivities of the area.
• They produce tonnes of rubbish each year, damaging the environment, harming people, and destroying the area's natural beauty.
• The current plan ought to focus on lowering the serious danger of pollution and environmental deterioration and promoting sustainable tourism.
• By scientific understanding and effective planning, the potential for high-end tourism and animal protection still needs to be realised.
• Without a thorough grasp of the intricate relationships between various landscape elements, the region's distinctive ecosystems may be negatively impacted by the tourism industry's rapid growth.