As Warwan attracts increasing numbers of domestic tourists, it is crucial to harness this opportunity for local empowerment while safeguarding the region’s natural ecosystem through responsible practices and strategic planning
Warwan, as an emerging tourist destination, witnesses a huge footfall of domestic tourists nowadays. This is indeed a great opportunity for the local community to earn their livelihood. However, despite this significant influx of tourists, the locals are still not properly able to derive economic benefit from this tourism boom. This is mainly because visitors bring all the essentials along with them. Of course, there is a limited accommodation facility; tourists have to bring tents to accommodate themselves. But the other necessities that a visitor usually requires on a trip are almost available there, such as food (local cuisine), transportation services, etc. On the other hand, the concerned authorities must consider the destination’s carrying capacity factor to maintain the sustainability of the destination.
Here are some issues that I have highlighted in this document that need urgent attention:
I have come to know that the local community of Warwan has started earning their livelihood through horse riding services for visitors, which is a good step and, of course, will lead to local empowerment. But at the same time, we need to protect the vegetation and natural ecosystem of the area to minimise environmental damage. Also, one designated route should be chosen for horse riding. If it continues through the core area, indeed, it could severely damage the spot.
I humbly request all natives to kindly consider this a big concern and start raising issues with the concerned authorities before it’s too late.
And I request the District Administration, Kishtwar, to kindly issue an order in Warwan Valley (particularly in Kawyerd), as most of the tourists bring their vehicles and drive them into the core area of the destination. This practice has a significant impact on the local ecology and simultaneously disturbs the biodiversity, leaving the destination with deep tire marks.
The writer is a resident of Aftee, Warwan. He is pursuing a master’s in Tourism, Hospitality & Leisure Studies at the University of Kashmir
Firdous Ahmad Khanday
fi****************@***il.com