A Pathway to Sustainable Development

The paradise on earth ‘Kashmir, a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has long been a haven for researchers, historians, educationists, poets, and thinkers. The Persian poet Urfi beautifully captured the essence of Kashmir’s rejuvenating environment when he said, “If a backed-bird enters into Kashmir, surely it is to grow fresh wings and feathers.” This highlights the life-giving ecology of the region, which continues to enchant visitors.

The introduction of eco-tourism in Kashmir is a commendable step towards leveraging this natural beauty for sustainable development. However, the fragile environment of Kashmir necessitates meticulous planning to ensure sustainability and prevent environmental erosion. It is imperative to address these concerns from the very beginning of infrastructure execution.

The Gulmarg cable car project, which is being upgraded to meet modern visitor requirements, serves as a pertinent example. Local visitors have expressed concerns about the makeshift structures along the cable car route, which have damaged vegetation and marred the landscape’s beauty. Regular visitors to Gulmarg, who come to enjoy the snow-covered vistas, have noted that influential individuals are often granted permission to construct hotels. In many cases, these hotels are built at the expense of the natural environment, with trees being deliberately girdled to justify their eventual felling.

Such practices not only undermine the aesthetic and ecological integrity of the region but also pose a significant threat to future generations. Our forefathers preserved Kashmir’s natural wealth, often referred to as “green gold,” for us. Yet, our greed risks turning this paradise into a desert in the near future.

The issues faced in Gulmarg are not isolated. Other tourist destinations like Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Yusmarg, and Doodhpathri and Sanasar Lake (in Jammu) are also grappling with environmental challenges. In Sonamarg, the road leading to Thajiwas Glacier is plagued by foul smells due to inadequate waste management. In Yusmarg, finding a shady tree during the summers has become increasingly difficult. Doodhpathri’s charm lies in its local tea vendors, yet the area lacks proper management and infrastructure, which could otherwise showcase village life and provide economic benefits to locals.

I was shocked when I saw centuries old green trees had been girdled around Sana Sar lake and locals informed that after The Hon’ble Supreme Court’s strict guidelines and the availability of timber in the market the smuggling of timber has stopped, but the practice of girdling the trunk of these trees gained momentum. No action is taken against the culprits.

Plastic bags and food wrappers are scattered across all tourist attractions, further diminishing the natural beauty and contributing to pollution. When asked why they chose to visit Kashmir, one non-local tourist replied that it is the forest cover and natural beauty that attract them. This response underscores the need to protect and preserve Kashmir’s unique ecological assets.

Shaikh Bashir A Wani, President of the retired Forest Officers Association, has voiced his concerns about the current lack of interest in safeguarding this natural treasure. He emphasized that the eco-tourism plan is a positive initiative but warned that without proper implementation, it could lead to catastrophic consequences.

Several countries around the world have successfully implemented eco-tourism strategies that protect the environment while boosting the local economy. To name a few we have Here are a few examples:

1. Costa Rica: Renowned for its biodiversity, Costa Rica has become a model for eco-tourism. The country has established numerous national parks and protected areas, ensuring that tourism development does not harm the environment. Eco-lodges and sustainable tourism practices have created economic opportunities for locals while preserving the natural landscape.
2. New Zealand: Known for its stunning natural beauty, New Zealand has implemented strict regulations to ensure that tourism activities do not damage its environment. The country promotes responsible travel through initiatives like the Tiaki Promise, encouraging visitors to protect and preserve the natural environment.

3.Bhutan: Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy aims to attract tourists who are willing to pay a premium for unique and sustainable experiences. This approach limits the number of visitors, reducing environmental impact and ensuring that tourism benefits the local economy.

4. Norway: Norway has embraced eco-tourism by promoting activities like hiking, bird watching, and northern lights tours, all of which have minimal impact on the environment. The country’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its focus on preserving natural landscapes and promoting eco-friendly accommodations.

Eco-tourism in Kashmir holds immense potential for sustainable development and economic growth. However, it is crucial to implement this initiative with careful planning and consideration for the environment. By learning from global success stories and prioritizing sustainability, Kashmir can become a leading destination for eco-tourism, benefiting both the environment and the local economy.

As we embark on this journey, let us remember the words of Urfi and strive to create a future where Kashmir remains a sanctuary for all living beings, a place where both nature and humanity can thrive.

Son of the soil, Chekbast has in a couplet beautifully captured the essence of Kashmir’s legendary hospitality and the life-giving nature of its environment. It is a call to action for all of us to preserve and enhance this legacy for future generations.

By embracing sustainable practices, promoting eco-tourism, and protecting our natural resources, we can ensure that Kashmir remains a welcoming and rejuvenating haven for all. Let’s work together to keep the spirit of hospitality alive and prove Chekbast’s words true for all times to come.