Why is Tourism Not Developed in Uttarakhand Hills?
Tourism in the Uttarakhand Hills has significant potential but currently faces several challenges that hinder its full development. Here, we explore the primary obstacles and highlight ongoing initiatives that aim to overcome these hurdles and transform Uttarakhand into a premier tourist destination.
Infrastructure Limitations
Poor road connectivity, inadequate public transport, and limited accommodation options deter tourists. Many remote areas remain difficult to access, especially during monsoon seasons when landslides are common. Improved infrastructure is crucial for enhancing accessibility and encouraging more visitors to explore the region.
Natural Disasters
The region is prone to natural disasters such as floods and landslides, which can create safety concerns and disrupt existing tourism facilities. Addressing these issues through robust disaster management strategies and emergency response systems is essential for ensuring the safety and comfort of tourists.
Environmental Concerns
The delicate ecosystem of the Himalayas can be negatively impacted by increased tourist activity. Promoting sustainable tourism practices, including waste management and responsible hiking guidelines, is vital to protect this fragile environment and ensure long-term conservation.
Lack of Promotion
Compared to other tourist destinations in India, Uttarakhand may not receive as much marketing and promotion. Increasing awareness among potential tourists through targeted campaigns and leveraging social media can help attract more visitors and grow the tourism sector.
Regulatory Challenges
Bureaucratic hurdles and regulatory challenges can make it difficult for businesses to operate and for new tourism initiatives to be launched. Streamlining the approval process and providing support to entrepreneurs can facilitate the growth of the tourism industry and create new job opportunities.
Seasonality
The tourism season in Uttarakhand is often limited to specific months, primarily during the summer and early autumn. Addressing this issue through year-round activities and diversifying attractions can enhance the viability of tourism-related businesses year-round.
Cultural Sensitivity
The local population may have reservations about large-scale tourism impacting their culture and lifestyle. Engaging with the local community, respecting their traditions, and involving them in decision-making processes can help build acceptance and cooperation.
Competition
Other popular hill stations in India, such as Manali and Shimla, attract more tourists, making it challenging for Uttarakhand to compete effectively. Diversifying the tourism offering and highlighting unique experiences can position Uttarakhand as a destination of choice for discerning travelers.
The Ongoing Transformation of Uttarakhand
Despite these challenges, substantial strides are being made to enhance tourism in Uttarakhand. The region is undergoing significant development through various projects that aim to improve infrastructure, promote sustainability, and attract more visitors.
Major Projects in Uttarakhand
Several major projects are underway in the region and are expected to be completed by 2025:
1. Char Dham Highway Project
A 600 KM highway project that will connect all major pilgrimage sites, including Rishikesh to Kedarnath, Rishikesh to Gangotri, Yamunotri, and Badrinath. The project is costing Rs 12000 crore and is expected to be completed by September 2021, providing all-weather connectivity to pilgrimage sites.
2. Char Dham Rail Project
This rail project aims to provide rail connectivity between all pilgrimage sites in Uttarakhand. The project costs Rs 43000 crore and includes the construction of new railway stations, such as the Rishikesh station. The project is anticipated to be completed by March 2022.
3. Kedarnath Temple and Village Redevelopment
Kedarnath village, which was affected by floods in 2013, is under redevelopment. A master plan designed and approved by the government includes the total reformation of Kedarnath Area. This project is expected to be completed by 2022.
4. Badrinath Beautification Project
A beautification project worth Rs 424 crore has been approved for Badrinath, which includes increasing parking area, changing, and widening entry areas, as well as the creation of more gardens and parks, with two ponds planned. The river front will be developed in a phased manner.
5. Worlds Largest Tulip Garden
Himalayan lap place called Mansuyari is home to a 50-hectare tulip garden, better than what people see in Amsterdam. This project features Kashmiri-style beauty and is aimed at attracting visitors from around the world. It is recently completed in Pithoragarh District.
6. Rishikesh – Haridwar – Dehradun Metro Project
A 73 KM, two-phase metro system is planned to connect three major places in Uttarakhand. The project is estimated to cost Rs 40000 crore and has been approved by Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat. Detailed Project Report (DPR) is being created for Cabinet Approval. This will revolutionize the transportation system of Uttarakhand.
7. Tehri Redevelopment Project
Tehri Lake is being developed as a world-class water sports hotspot. All kinds of water sports will be available there, of certified international level, including many resorts, luxury hotels, spa centers, floating huts, floating restaurants, and a giant London-style wheel. This project is investing Rs 5000 crore, including Rs 1400 crore from the Centre and Rs 3600 crore from the State.
8. Jamrani Dam Project
A hydro power generation project is underway with Rs 2584 crore approved from the Centre. The 15 MW power generation will also channel water for irrigation.
9. Dehradun Smart City Project
Dehradun is undergoing infrastructural improvements worth Rs 1200 crore, including upgrading existing infrastructure like sewage and drainage systems, widening roads, building green collectors, improving bus stands, and running 300 electric buses.
10. Dehradun New Airport Terminal
A new terminal is almost ready to improve the capacity of Dehradun Airport, scheduled for inauguration in 2021.
11. Delhi-Saharanpur-Dehradun Expressway
This 180 KM six-lane expressway connects Delhi to Dehradun via Shamli and Saharanpur, part of the proposed Economic Corridor.
12. 13 District, 13 New Theme-Based Tourism Projects
Each district is focusing on developing a unique tourism spot, including Munsiyari in Pithoragarh, Kausani in Bageshwar, Katarmal in Almora, and many more.
13. Improving Connectivity
Couple of domestic airports are planned to get Cabinet approval, further enhancing the region’s connectivity.
Kudos to Trivendra Singh Rawat Ji and Narendra Modi Ji for their focused approach to redeveloping the beautiful state of Uttarakhand.