ANALYSING THEEMERGING ENVIRONMENTALREPERCUSSIONSOF MASS TOURISM AND SUSTAINABLE INITIATIVES OF GOVERNMENT INMANALI TOWN, DISTRICT KULLU, HIMACHAL ...
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Science, Technology and Development ISSN : 0950-0707
Analysing theEmerging EnvironmentalRepercussionsof Mass Tourism
and Sustainable Initiatives of Government inManali Town, District
Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
Yagyesh Kant1 and Pankaj Gupta2
1Scholar, School of Environmental Sciences, Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, School of
Environmental Sciences Institute of Integrated Himalayan Studies, UGC Centre of Excellence, Himachal
Pradesh University, Shimla-171005.
2Course Coordinator, School of Environmental Sciences, Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, School
of Environmental Sciences Institute of Integrated Himalayan Studies, UGC Centre of Excellence, Himachal
Pradesh University, Shimla-171005. (Corresponding Author)
ABSTRACT
Tourism is one of the main sources of income in most countries and in India it
contributes about 15 percent of GDP. As a consequence of increased
transportation facilities, tourism has expanded and the movement of people
has increased in the last decade which is increasing traffic and posing threat of
environmental pollution. The tourism sector in Manali is thriving day by day,
but this development also includes an undiscovered aspect, the negative being
the environment-related problems likes: over constructed hotels, traffic jams,
air pollution, solid waste generation and disposal issues. The paper highlights
the changes that are taking place in the environment as a result of the mass
tourism in the town. The study carried out in Manali town deals with the
implications of mass tourism activities and how it has contributed to various
problems manifesting as pressure on land, air, and water resources.
Keywords: Mass Tourism, Air Pollution, Solid Waste, Water Pollution, Manali, Sustainable
Initiatives, Kullu District
INTRODUCTION
The developmental activities including the mass tourism are posing threats to the
existence of man and environment. With the progression of tourism activities, large
infrastructures, hotels, spas, and restaurants are built at a tourist place to cater to the
needs of tourists, affecting the land use pattern, causing pollution, and resulting in
theloss of habitat. Buckley (1990) studied the environmental impacts on the National
Parks and conservation reserves of Australian region, which are the main attraction for
the tourists [1]. Duim and Caalders (2002) conceptualized the relation between tourism
and biodiversity, against the background of the convention on biological diversity [2].
Sunlu (2003) described the effects of mass tourism on natural resources, environmental
pollution and physical environment in the Mediterranean region [3]. Thomas (2013)
pointed out the concept of sustainable tourism and evaluates the challenges posed by
tourism [4]. Apollo (2015) studied the socio-economic and environmental changes
caused by tourism destination of Himalayan villages in India and Nepal [5].
Ramamoorthi et al. (2019) discussed the positive and negative impacts of mass tourism
in Ooty, the Nilgiris, viz., pollution, soil erosion and habitat loss and concluded that the
relationship between tourism and environment has remained one of conflict rather than
symbiosis and increasing thepressure on natural resources [6]. Rai and Sundriyal
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(1997) studiedtourism and biodiversity conservation in Sikkim Himalay and concluded
that local stakeholders need to be trained as nature guides and local communities have
to be strengthened [7]. Singh (2013) in his study pointed out that sustainable
development in Himachal Pradesh needs the monitoring of environmental problems [8].
Kala (2013) carried out the study on ecotourism and sustainable development of eco-
park in Uttarakhand state. Uttarakhand promotes ecotourism in National Parks and
Sanctuaries apart from exclusive area created for ecotourism in the form of eco-park
[9]. These studies suggested the need for proper identification of sites, focusing on the
conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem. Innovations in ecotourism, development of
proper planning and policy are required for meeting the sustainability of natural
resources.
Himachal Pradesh being a hilly state, attracts tourists. Summers and winters both are
peak seasons for tourists that results in pressurizing the natural resources. In tourism
destinations like Shimla, where there is a shortage of water because of population
growth, tourism activities threaten the survival of local communities. Despite this,
the tourist count is increasing every year. Kullu-Manali is one of the tourist destinations
of Himachal Pradesh. Manali starts booming in the early 20th century, mainly because of
its natural bounties and salubrious climate. Manali has emerged as a tourism spot,
which has resulted in various ecological problems during the peak season, including air
pollution, increased pressure on land and water sources, traffic congestion,
deforestation, solid waste, water pollution, etc. Manali has emerged from a small village
into a big town. During the peak seasons thousands of tourists visit Manali. Local people
living in Manali had to sufferbecause of the rapid influx of tourists. Thus, it becomes
important to evaluate the impact of mass tourism on man and environment in Manali
town.
METHODOLOGICAL FRAMEWORK
The present study has included both qualitative and quantitative research tools for
gathering and analysing the information. For the accomplishment of the objectives of
the study both primary and secondary data was collected and analyzed. The primary
data was collected using a pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire, with open-ended
questions. The personal interview of the locals was carried out using audio/visual tools
and gadgets. The secondary information was gathered from concerned departments,
viz. Country and Town Planning, Department of Forests, HP State Pollution Control
Board,Municipal Council Manali,IPH department, District Tourism Development Officer,
Manali,etc.
Study Area: The total geographical area of the Kullu district is 5503 sq. km. Kullu was
named Kulantpitha, i.e., the end of the habitable world [10]. Nestled in the lap of the
Himalay, Manali is a famous tourist destination, known all over the world for its
stunning natural landscape and lush green environment. Manali finds its mention in the
Vedic literature and other ancient scriptures. Surrounded by the pine trees, Manali was
established on the banks of River Beas in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Manali is
Volume X Issue V MAY 2021 Page No : 88Science, Technology and Development ISSN : 0950-0707
accessible by road and air transport. Manali is situated 40 kilometres from Kullu, the
district headquarters in the northern part of the valley, under the Pir Panjal mountain
range. Manali is located at an altitude of 1958 meters above the mean sea level. Manali
town is situated with an unparalleled setting to the west of the River Beas, which makes
the town more beautiful with its crystal-clear water. Temperate Forests surrounding
Manali comprised of Pine and Deodar trees. Manali has been the predominant attraction
for the tourists owing to its pleasant weather, snow-capped mountains and widespread
orchards of pear, plum, apple and apricot. Manali has a warm and temperate climate;
mainly cool during the winters and moderately warm during the summers. Manali
receives less rainfall in winters than in summers. Manali town has a total geographical
area of 3.5 sq. km. According to the 2011 Census, it has 2277 houses and has a
population of 8096, 4717 (58%) of which are male and 3379 (42%) are female. Tourism
has become the mainstay of town’s economy and people of Manali run hotels, opt for
becoming tourist guide and raise apple orchards. The tourism sector started growing in
Manali in the 20th century and has witnessed a rise in the hotel industry in the past few
decades. Every year many tourists visit Manali from different districts and Indian states.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Manali is famous for its ancient historical relevance and natural beauty. It attracts
tourists from all over the world. As the arrival of people from other states and abroad
has increased, so is the contact of people from outside states has increased, which has
further boosted tourism. Ever since the terrorism has increased in Kashmir, the influx of
tourist towards Manali has increased. The tourists mainly visit Manali to see the snow-
laden hills and enjoy the adventure sports activities. The tourists visit Manali in the
summers and early winters. 90 percent of the tourists visit Manali to see Rohtang Pass,
snowfall and trekking.Manali is a major attraction for filmmakers because of its scenic
beauty and adventurous mountain tracks. Though Manali is a centre of attraction for
mountain lovers, it is valued for its rich culture and tradition. The traditional foods, huts
and clothes depict the culture of the Kullu district. Department of Forest and Tourism is
developing Manali as a tourist spot. A number of nature parks and ecotourism sites have
come up in Manali. Many hotels and restaurants serve traditional foods which attract
many tourists. Every year winter carnival is organized which showcases the culture of
Kullu.The tourism department has evolved and executed various policies, acts, rules and
schemes for the sustainable development of tourism. According to Tourism
Infrastructure Sustainable Development Plan for Himachal Pradesh (2019), Kullu
district is performing well in snow tourism, adventure tourism, pilgrimage tourism,
cultural and heritage and film tourism. There are three main guiding principles for
managing tourism these are sustainable tourism, inclusive tourism and “Atithi Devo
Bhava”. HP Tourism Development and Registration Act 2002, HP Tourism Trade Rules
2012, River Rafting Rules 2005, HP Miscellaneous Adventure Activities Rules 2017 and
Home Stay Schemes are some of the rules and acts that govern the management of
tourism in Manali.
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Implications of Mass Tourism in Manali
Waste generation, air pollution due to vehicular traffic, water pollution, forest, soil
erosion land degradation are the major environmental challenges in Manali. Solid Waste
generation is harmful if not managed carefully; tourists and local people litter waste in
and around the town. The solid waste generated from the houses of locals is a big
challenge for the Municipal Council which manages the waste of entire town. Vehicular
traffic is degrading the air quality mainly during the peak season. Water pollution is
caused by the release of seepages from the septic tank and STP effluent into the Beas
River. Sewage generation is a major problem during the peak season because at present
the capacity of the plant is so small that it cannot withstand the load during the peak
season. According to the local people, during the peak season (May to July), tourists
influx increases. The roads of Manali cannot bear the pressure of increasing number of
vehicles, because of which there is a traffic jam for 4 to 5 hours, even from morning to
evening and it takes 2 to 3 hours for a four-wheeler to get out of the town. Thus, the
long rows of vehicles release more pollutants. People reveal that deforestation has been
done for the construction of hotels, parking and roads. Soil erosion is another major
problem of the town. In the rainy season and winters, soil erosion is more frequent as a
result of which the soil texture cannot bear a load of heavy rain without flora. So, the
deforestation in the town has increased the incidence of soil erosion and related
problems. Deforestation for road construction has posed the threats of soil erosion in
the region from Solang to Kullu.
If one looks at the social environment, one finds a change in that too. When we talk
about the annihilation of culture or tradition, then the developmental activities and
expansion of tourism could be blamed. Residents of any place are equally responsible
for the same because they leave their culture and adopt outside culture. People have
forgotten their morality and are engrossed in money-making thusoverlooking their
culture. Some of the environmental repercussions of mass tourism on Manali are:
Solid-Waste Generation: Littering of solid waste causes many problems like choking of
the drains and water pipes, contamination of water and soil degradation. This problem
is mainly seen in the tourist season when the public bins overflow and littering of
cartonsis done by tourists and locals. Running waste into natural drains leads to the
blockage of drainages. According to Municipal Council (MC), Manali has adopted the
door-to-door garbage collecting service. As per the data gathered from MC Manali, the
daily waste generation in Manali city is approximately 14 MT during the tourist off-
season.
Table1: Waste Generations from Different Sources
Sources On-Tourist Season Off-Tourist Season
Restaurants 3 MT 1.2 MT
Households 3.6 MT 1.4 MT
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Hospital 0.2 MT 0.08 MT
School 0.2 MT 0.08 MT
Shops and commercial establishment 4.2 MT 1.7 MT
Surrounding Panchayat Areas 1 MT 0.4 MT
Source: Municipal Council, Manali
Table 1 depicts the waste generation per capita per day from houses as 170
gm/capita/day, from hotels as 500 gm/capita/day and from shops, it is 1.2
kg/shop/day. Solid waste increases from 14-15 MT to 35 to 36 MT during the peak
season, i.e., from mid-April to end-September. This shows that the waste generation per
capita per day from houses is 400 gm/capita/day, from hotels as 1.20 kg/capita/day
and in case of shops it is 3 kg/shop/day. The door-to-door waste collection has been
initiated in all the wards; however, the percentage of hotels, shops, and houses
population covered under the system varies from ward to ward. According to MC
Manali,One MT solid waste is collected from the adjacentnine panchayats. MC claims
that 100 percent of the households are covered under door-to-door waste collection
services.
Table 2: Percentage of Bio-Degradable and Non-Bio Degradable waste
Type of Waste Tourist Season Tourist Off Season
Bio-Degradable 8.75 MT 3.5 MT
Non-Bio-Degradable 26.25 MT 10.50 MT
Source: Municipal Council, Manali
Air Pollution: Increased tourism is one of the key causes of increasing air pollution.
Manali, known for its beautiful and pleasant climate, cannot escape pollution. Air quality
has been affected due to vehicular traffic during the peak season from May to July.
During this time, there are a lot of changes in the air quality. Before 4 o’clock in the
morning, people leave for Rohtang Pass, from which it can be estimated that about 5000
to 6000 vehicles leave for Rohtang by 10 AM. But, after the strict enforcement of
National Green Tribunal guidelines, the number of vehicles has reduced, i.e., 800 petrol
vehicles and 400 diesel vehicles. The data obtained from Himachal Pradesh State
Pollution Control Board, shows increasing and decreasing trend of different pollutants;
Ammonia (NH3), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), oxides of sulfur (SOx), Respiratory Particulate
Matter (RSPM), Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) and Particulate Matter 2.5
(PM2.5).The air quality of Manali deteriorates during the peak season. Air quality is
measured by Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) and PM2.5 machine.
There are two stations of HPPCB in Manali, one at Nehru Park and the second at
Hidimba road. Hidimba road is affected more than Nehru Park. Air quality parameters
analyzed are SOX, NOX, RSPM, NH3, SPM and PM 2.5 (in μg/m3). From 2011 to 2019, the
values of the SOX remained between 2.1 to 3.7 μg/m3 and it is very less than the annual
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standard which is 50, average values of the NOx are between 8.7 to 13.7 μg/m3 and
annual standard for NOx is 40 μg/m3, RSPM ranges between 32.8 to 132.6 μg/m3 and the
annual standard for RSPM is 60.0 μg/m3.At Nehru park station,NH3 is observed only in
the year 2018-19, SPM and PM at the stations are very less and was observed only in
year 2014 and 2019. Table 3 shows the air quality of Manali town from the year 2011 to
2019. The parameters of Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM) are the main
reason for decreased air quality in the town and RSPM rises mainly during the peak
season. However, the overall air quality of the town is good because of the presence of
Cedrus and Pine trees, which are surrounding the town and act as sink. The standards
for parameters are 50.0 μg/m3, 40 μg/m3, 60 μg/m3, 100 μg/m3, 50 μg/m3, 40 μg/m3 of
SO2, NOx, RSPM, NH3, SPM, and PM2.5 are respectively. Table 3 shows the air quality of
Nehru Park Manali. Table 4 shows that the air quality of Hidimba Road.
Table 3: Air quality of the Manali town (Nehru Park Manali)
Parameter (μg/m3)
SO2 NOx RSPM NH3 SPM PM 2.5
Standards International 20*(24 h 40 - - 20 10
(annual)* (WHO) mean)
National (NAAQS) 50 40 60 100 60 40
State (HPPCB) 50 40 60 100 60 40
Year SO2 NOx RSPM NH3 SPM PM 2.5
2011-12 2.1 9.1 115 - - -
2012-13 3.7 13.7 95.5 - - -
2013-14 2.3 9.7 32.8 - - -
2014-15 2.1 8.3 31.3 - 75.5 -
2015-16 2.0 13.4 54.9 - - -
2016-17 2.0 10.8 57.9 - - -
2017-18 2.4 11.9 53.0 - - -
2018-19 2.3 12.2 85.7 5.0 - 29.2
Source: Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board
Air Quality during the Peak Seasons (June and July): Tourist season in Manali starts
from May to July and early winters between October to December. But 70% of the
tourists come in June and July which is the peak season in Manali.
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Table 4: Air quality of Manali (Hidimba Road Manali)
Year SO2 in NOx in RSPM in NH3 in SPM PM 2.5
(μg/m3) (μg/m3) (μg/m3) (μg/m3) (μg/m3) (μg/m3)
2011-12 2.1 9.8 132.6 - - -
2012-13 4 9.4 51.5 - - -
2013-14 2.4 10.5 51.8 - - -
2014-15 2.2 13.9 53 - - -
2015-16 2 5.7 38.9 - 75.5 -
2016-17 2 5.3 41.5 - - -
2017-18 2 5.5 41.1 - - -
2018-19 - - - - - -
Source: Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board
After the year 2011-12, values decreased instantly. June has more inflow of tourists and
fruit season also starts in Manali; hence, the traffic of vehicles is more than other
months. In July, the value goes down because, with the starting of the rainy season, air
pollution decreases apparently. SPM and NH3 and PM2.5 are observed in 2014 and 2018-
19. Table 5 and Table 6 shows the values of the air quality during the peak month at
Nehru Park and Hidimba Road. Nehru Parkhas more RSPM values than station 2, SOX
has almost same values fluctuating between 2.0 to 2.8. During 2011-12, there was
higher concentration of SOX, NOX and RSPM at both the stations.
Table 5: Air quality of Station-1, Nehru Park
Year /Months SOX NOX RSPM SPM NH3 PM2.5
2011 June - - - - - -
July - - 56.0 - - -
2012 June 5.9 21.3 163.0 - - -
July 10.6 11.7 131.3 - - -
2013 June 2.9 15.5 74.8 - - -
July 2.6 8.3 45.2 - - -
2014 June 2.8 18.5 61.4 129.7 - -
July 2.1 13.5 49.1 106.3 - -
2015 June 2.2 16.7 55.9 - - -
July 2.1 14.9 38.6 - - -
2016 June 2.0 14.5 56.0 - - -
July 2.0 13.1 50.1 - - -
2017 June 2.8 14.5 52.1 - - -
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July 2.5 11.0 41.9 - - -
2018 June 2.9 20.0 108.8 - 6.3 39.1
July 2.3 12.9 67.1 - 5.9 24.7
Source: Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board
Table 6: Air Quality of Station-2 Hidimba Road
Year/ Months SOX NOX RSPM SPM NH3 PM2.5
2011 June - - - - - -
July - - - - - -
2012 June 5.8 15.1 109.0 - - -
July 10.4 9.6 64.2 - - -
2013 June 2.9 14.1 49.6 - - -
July 2.7 6.9 20.7 - - -
2014 June 2.8 14.7 42.6 93.2 - -
July 2.3 12.7 29.1 70.7 - -
2015 June 2.3 6.4 34.8 - - -
July 2.0 5.2 24.2 - - -
2016 June 2.0 4.8 42.0 - - -
July 2.0 5.4 29.4 - - -
2017 June 2.2 6.1 48.3 - - -
July 2.1 4.7 24.8 - - -
2018 June 2.1 9.2 64.7 - 5.09 22.7
July 2.0 5.0 46.2 - 4.7 16.7
Source: Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board
Water Pollution: The supply of drinking water in Manali is fulfilled by Manalsu khad.
The place from where the water is lifted by Irrigation and Public Health Department is
located at a height from the Old Manali Village, where there is no human settlement. The
water pollution is seen in River Beas. Water is affected by the tourism activities. Every
month, Himachal Pradesh Pollution Control Board takes water sample for analysis from
the upstream and downstream of Beas River in Manali and analyze four parameters
including pH, dissolved oxygen, BOD and total coliform.
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Table 7: Water quality of Beas River at Manali
Parameters
Stream pH DO BOD TC
(mg/l) (mg/l) (MPN/SP
C/100 ml)
Standards International (WHO) 6.5 to 1000 80 0
8.5
National Desirable 6.5 to 500 2mg or 500
(BIS) limit 8.5 less
Permissible - 2000 3mg/l 5000
limit
State (HPPCB) 6.5 to - - -
8.5
Year Stream pH DO BOD TC
(mg/l) (mg/l) (MPN/SP
C/100 ml)
2005-2006* U/s 7.7 10.4 0.7 13.6
D/s - - - -
2006-2007** U/s 7.2 8.9 0.3 620.7
D/s 6.9 9.1 2.7 2200
2007-2008** U/s 7.2 8.9 0.3 620.7
D/s 6.9 9.1 2.7 2200
2008-2009** U/s 7.7 8.9 0.3 646.5
D/s 7.2 7.9 1.5 1565
2009-2010** U/s 7.4 9.6 0.5 1935
D/s 5.7 8.8 3.2 2200
2010-2011** U/s 7.5 9 0.2 690
D/s 6.7 8.2 0.9 2200
2011-2012 U/s - - - -
D/s - - - -
2012-2013* U/s 8.0 9.1 0.1 70
D/s 7.5 8.9 0.1 233.3
2013-2014*** U/s 7.9 9.3 0.2 91
D/s 7.9 9.2 0.3 175
2014-2015*** U/s 7.8 9.2 0.11 112.7
D/s 7.7 9.2 0.21 203.9
2015-2016*** U/s - 9.8 0.1 72.5
D/s 7.5 9.6 0.14 202.2
2016-2017*** U/s - - - -
D/s - - - -
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2017-2018*** U/s 7.6 9.2 0.1 106.5
D/s 7.6 9.0 0.2 182
2018-2019*** U/s 7.9 9.0 0.1 166
D/s 7.9 8.8 0.2 405
Source: Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board
*= Data of three months these are April, July, October; **= data of four months these are April, July, October and
January of the next year; ***= data of twelve months.
Table 7 shows that the year 2005-06 has only three samples’ months, viz., April, July,
and October After the year 2006 to 2011 there are samples of four months, i.e., April,
July, October, and January of the subsequent year. After 2011, twelve samples were
drawn. During 2005-06, the average pH was 7.7, dissolved oxygen was 10.4 mg/l, BOD
0.7mg/l and total coliform were 13.6. In 2006-07, pH decreased to 7.2 than the previous
year, dissolved oxygen and BOD also decreased to 8.9 mg/l and 0.3 mg/l respectively.
Total coliform increased to 620.7 MPN/SPC/100 ml in upstream and 2200
MPN/SPC/100 ml downstream. During 2008-09, pH, DO and BOD remained normal like
the previous years but the total coliform increased in the upstream of Manali by 646
MPN/SPC/100 ml and decreased by 1565 MPN/SPC/100 ml than the previous years.
During 2009-10, pH in upstream was 7.4 and in downstream it decreased and water in
the downstream became acidic than the previous year and total coliform in the
upstream of the river increased to 1935 MPN/SCP/100 ml and in downstream it is
constant as previous years. During 2010-11, total coliform decreased than the previous
year to 690 but downstream total coliform remains constant.
Water Quality: Two water tanks with a total capacity of 18.5 MLD are fulfilling the
requirement of potable water in Manali town. This amount of water is sufficient for the
residents of Manali town and fulfils the seasonal requirement during the tourist season.
Manalsu khad is the main source of potable water for Manali town. Manalsu khad is the
perennial source of water. A proper water supply system exists in the town. The amount
of potable water supplied to Manali Town is made in sufficient quantity; however, there
is a little shortage during the cleaning or repairing of the tanks. Six physical
examinations and twelve chemical examination tests are done to test the quality of
drinking water in Manali town which is presented in table 8. According to the
laboratory test reports, the tested parameters are always within the acceptable limits.
Table 9 shows the average of twelve months.
Table 8: Physical and Chemical Properties of Water
Physical Examinations
Parameters Desirable limit Permissible limit
Appearance - -
Color (Hazen scale unit) 5 15
Taste and odour (qualitative) - -
Turbidity (NTU) 1 5
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Conductivity (micro-Siemens) - -
Chemical Examinations
Parameters Desirable limit Permissible limit
M.O. alkalinity as CaCO3 200 600
Total hardness as CaCO3 200 600
Nitrate as N 45 45
Chloride as Cl 250 1000
Sulphate as SO4 200 400
Fluoride as F 1 1.5
Iron as Fe 0.3 0.3
Manganese as Mn 0.1 0.3
Calcium as Ca 75 200
Magnesium as Mg 30 100
Total solid dried as 105 °C 500 2000
Total residual Chlorine as Cl2 0.2 1
Source: IPH Department, Manali
Table9: Water quality of Manalsu Khad
Year Parameters
Standards (mg/l) pH DO BOD TC
International 6.5 to 8.5 0
(WHO)
National (CPCB) 6.5 to 8.5 6 2 50
State (HPPCB) 5.5 to 9.0
2017-18 7.9 8.8 0.2 405
2018-19 8 9 0.1 152
Source: Himachal Pradesh State Pollution Control Board
Sewerage Treatment Plant is playing an important role in Manali for controlling the
sewage and is one of the essential public utilities. Manali has a single Sewage Treatment
Plant with a capacity of 1.82 MLD, which is very less according to the current situation.
The situation becomes worse during the tourism season due to additional sewage flow
especially in the months of May, June, and July. According to the officials of the IPH
department, the new sewage treatment plant of Manali is planned in next few years at
Aloo ground 5 km far from Manali town towards Kullu, for which the land demarcation
has been done, in which, apart from the market, other villages adjoining the market will
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also be connected to the sewage service. The population of Manali has increased and on
the other hand when tourism is at its peak, i.e., in the months of May, June, and July, the
sewage waste and solid waste in the Municipal area increases by 8 to 10 times. Sewage
increments have shown an increasing trend in Manali.
Table 10: Sewage Sample Results
Year Parameters
pH TSS BOD (mg/l) COD (mg/l) Fecal
coliform
Limit 6.5-9.0 LimitScience, Technology and Development ISSN : 0950-0707
2014 626 183
2015 679 219
2016 703 221
2017 768 249
2018 854 260
2019 886 260
Source: District Tourism Development Officer, Manali
Table 12: Ward-wise distribution of Hotels and Guesthouse in Manali Town
Current ward Status up to Number of hotels Number of Guesthouse
2019 in MC area in MC area
Ward No. 1 63 1
Ward No. 2 40 1
Ward No. 3 42 -
Ward No. 4 57 2
Ward No. 5 2 -
Ward No. 6 50 1
Ward No. 7 41 1
Source: Municipal Council, Manali
Table 13: Year-wise Tourist influx in Manali Town
Year Indian Foreigner Total % change
2008 2001674 112910 2114584 -
2009 2224649 119514 2344163 10% increment
2010 2395990 133707 2529697 7% increment
2011 2659527 138488 2798015 10% increment
2012 3082545 143900 3226445 15% increment
2013 2766709 119341 2886050 10% reduction
2014 3187436 104309 3291745 14% increment
2015 3314463 109468 3423931 4% increment
2016 3515169 122064 3637233 6% increment
2017 3732044 133057 3865101 6% increment
2018 2912552 96201 3008753 22% reduction
2019 3056463 102948 3159411 5% increment
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Total 34849221 1435907 36285128 -
Source: District Tourism Development Officer, Manali
Over the years, there has been a change in the climate of Manali. Earlier the oil bottles
kept used to freeze in winters, the water pipes used to crack due to freezing cold but
this is not seen nowadays. About 15 years ago, there used to be 4 feet of snow, but now
it has shrunk to 1-2 feet only.
GOVERNMENT’S INITIATIVES
Municipal Council: Municipal Council is managing the solid waste of Manali. According
to Municipal Council, solid waste generation in the town is 35 Tons per day, and the
whole of the waste is collected. Waste generated is estimated by the record of daily
vehicles collecting the waste and gathered at the project site. Fourteen vehicles of TATA
Maximo and one dumper placer are used for the transportation of dry and wet waste in
a segregated manner.
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Table 14: Processing of Waste at Dumping Site
Parameters Remarks
Processing of wet 12 numbers of composting pits constructed for composting of wet
waste waste. Daily input of wet waste is 12-14 MT
Processing of dry A 100 ton per day capacity RDF processing plant is being installed at
waste Manali to convert the legacy waste and daily waste into RDF, which
is still operational for only segregation of waste from 2019. RDF is
incinerated into direct solid fuel to run gas turbine for production of
electricity.
All vehicles are connected with GPS and street swiping is done regularly. According to
the Municipal Council, waste segregation is done by all of the seven wards, and 70
percent target is achieved and people are being made aware through intensive IEC
(Information, Education, and Communication) activities. Steps have been taken to
prevent the release of solid waste into the water bodies. Wire mesh fencing and
retaining walls are constructed along the riverside near Manalsu Bridge and River Beas
to prevent the spill over of garbage in the river. It is estimated that on average between
25-30 TPD of MSW is generated in Manali. Currently, it is being collected, transported,
and disposed at a dumping site near AMSVM School. 35 MT of total waste is sent to the
cement plant per month. Plastic waste collection centre is opened in the urban local
body by the Municipal Council as required under plastic waste buy-back policy but the
quantity purchased by the MC is nil. The quantity of the legacy waste (old-dumped
waste) existing at the dumpsite of ULB is 10000 MT and this legacy waste is cleared by
the WTE plant. Two locations have been identified where the waste from drains/nallahs
flow into the main water body and protection is provided at these locations. Five
garbage vulnerable points are identified and two of them are eliminated by MC
Manali.Refuse-derived fuel is generated by the incinerator machine that belongs to
Nextgen Chemicals and it is the world’s leading incineration technology. This technology
is capable of handling any type of waste product and still meets the most stringent
environmental standards anywhere in the world. Direct Solid Fuel Recuperated Gas
Turbine Engines has made dramatic improvements over the years, particularly in the
areas of computerization and flow control. By controlling the rate at which the waste is
processed in the combustion chamber, it ensures the most consistent temperature
controls and in doing so, it ensures that no organic or inorganic airborne pollutants are
released during the incineration process. The units are efficient, easily maintained, cost-
effective, and rugged, while offering the highest environmental sensitivity possible. For
MC Manali, this technology proposed waste-to-power conversion plant that will
generate and provide some economic benefits, including permanent and temporary
employment during the initial construction and operation periods. It will offer an
economic solution to the ever-increasing municipal, industrial problems, especially, the
medical waste discharge which will be converted into electric power required for the
town and region development at a rate comparable to the present real cost of energy
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production. It exemplifies the minimizing or elimination of waste disposal problems and
costs by using the residual ash for the production of cement construction blocks. This is
accomplished by selling the residual ash to the manufacturer of cement blocks, or
alternatively set up a plant to produce the blocks, and provide employment to the local
community. The technology ensures the elimination of long-term groundwater
contamination from traditional landfill use.
Forest Department: The forest department has executed policies and rules for entering
the forest area. Wildlife sanctuaries and nature parks have been opened by the forest
department. These protected areas also promote tourism with regulations and generate
income. There is one pheasantry, one wildlife sanctuary, and three Van Vihars/ Nature
Parks in Manali town. Nehru Pheasantry, Manali is situated inside the Forest Reserve
R/3 Dana Bihal on Manali Hidimba road. The place is important from a tourism and
pilgrim point of view. Along with its aesthetic and recreational value for pilgrims and
tourists, it also serves as a center for imparting education on the conservation of
wildlife. Flora in the pheasantry includes trees, herbs, and shrubs. Trees such as Deodar,
fir, spruce, kail, prunus, acer, buxus, rhododendron, celtis, betula, ulmus, aesculus, alnus,
myrica, and exotic species like English oak, chestnut, tilia, fagus sylvatica, castanea, and
alders are found in Nehru pheasantry. Besides this, there are herbs and shrubs, such as
shingli mingli, patish, dhoop, cotonester, valeriana, cannabis, kurroa, artemesia, salam
panja, thymus, anemone, deutzia, rumex, polygonum, etc. Fauna in the pheasantry
includes animals and birds. Animals such as monkey, languor, jackals, jungle cat,
Himalayan yellow-throated marten, snakes, monitor lizards are also found. Birds, such
as owls, sparrows, swallows, flycatchers, kaleej pheasant, partridge, Himalayan Monal,
Jujurana, flying squirrel, etc. are also seen. Rules and regulations of the pheasantry lay
emphasis on:
• Not to enter pheasant's enclosures
• Not to feed or tease the pheasants
• Not to litter or play music
• Not to carry sharp objects or firearms
• Not to eat /smoke/drink inside
• Not to violate Pheasantry Rules and keep campus Pheasantry clean
Thus, the pheasantry creates awareness about the nature and wildlife conservation,
recreation, and knowledge of wildlife through study of animal behavior and exhibits
wild animals in an environment as close as possible to their natural one. It provides an
opportunity to the visitors to watch the animals in natural conditions.There are three
nature parks in town with facilities such as parking, drinking water, toilet facility,
resting places, signages, information centres, and souvenir shop. There are rules and
regulations made by the department for managing the parks for instance, not to litter,
disturb the environment, eat inside, smoke/ drink inside, smoke/ drink inside, violate
rules, and keep the campus clean. Manali Nature Park (I) with an area of 24.68 ha
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comprising of reserve forest, R/4 Siyal Bihal is situated near Manali Bus Stand. Park has
majestic Deodar trees standing with green mats of grass and herbs. The park is situated
along Beas River. Forest trails around the park give a true feeling of forests and provide
an opportunity to gaze at a wide variety of colorful birds. The boating facility is also
there with Children Park.Manali Nature Park (II) with an area of 23.19 ha comprising of
reserve forest, R/2 Monalgan, and R/3 Dana bihal is located near Manali Mall on
Hidimba road. Forest trails around the park are ideal for walking and breathing fresh air
and gaze at colourful birds. Dhungri Nature Park (III)has an area of 12.54 ha comprising
of reserve forest, R/1 Dhungri near Manali Mall, and surrounds the ancient Hidimba
temple. It has giant deodar trees standing in meditating posture along with a green mat
of grass. The serenity of Mother Nature is alluring in this park.
DISCUSSION
The arrival of tourism in any region boosts the economic condition of that region but
also exerts pressure on floral and faunal diversity and even affects the local culture.
Tourism in India has been continuously promoted by campaigns like “Atithi Devo
Bhava” and “Incredible India” and through such campaigns, tourism has flourished.
Gradually the tourism, especially mass tourism has increased the influx of tourists
beyond the carrying capacity of the tourist site. Mass tourism has increased because of
ease to access tourist places; festival celebration; availability of proper accommodation
and cheap tour packages. Mass tourism activities have resulted in modification in
culture; environmental degradation; dependency on tourism income; depletion of
natural resources and spreading of diseases. The present study enumerated the positive
and negative impacts of tourism on the environment and social life of people in Manali.
The entrance of Manali welcomes tourists with the dumping site full of garbage waste.
There is no segregation of waste whereas there is the smart technology installed by a
private company but still the administration is doing nothing for creating awareness.
The major problem of Manali is solid waste which increases during the peak tourist
season. Air and water quality are deteriorating gradually. Expansion of hotels poses
threats to the forests that ultimately affect the wildlife. Because of the expansion of
tourism, Manali is also facing the problem of social degradation, i.e., local culture is
imitating the western culture. There are positive impacts where the locals and
authorities are benefiting through tourism activities. Tourism in Manali has become a
source of income generation for most people. Ecotourism sites are made in the area to
promote tourism for saving and conserving biodiversity. Nature parks and wildlife
sanctuaries are generating income with the conservation of rare and threatened species.
Study carried out by Apollo (2015) in the Himalayan villages of India and Nepal viewed
tourism as an important component in the process of development. The Himalay has led
to a considerable sociological evolution of diverse mountain communities, which are
very sensitive towards foreign influence. Tourist knowledge of local culture, tradition,
and customs is one of the important elements that affect the feelings of local towards
tourists. Tourism that results in transformation must be taken into consideration during
the development of plans to protect the environment. Observations made by Rizal and
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Rajamani (2014) in other states of India, revealed that environmental issues of tourism
in India are different[11]. Tourism has a strong relationship with economic growth and
development in India. It is not only an important contributor to GDP but it provides
employment on large scale. The present study also shows that tourism is providing
employment in form of hotel management, taxi drivers, tourist guides and cultural
decorate and foods. Rai and Sundriyal (1997) shows that Sikkim has rich biodiversity
and cultural heterogenicity with distinctive ethnic groups, mountain peaks, sacred
lakes, and monasteries making it a place of tourist attraction like Manali. Tourism has a
major impact on resources including the forests. Unplanned tourism activities result
inaccumulation oflitter, erosion, landslides, habitat change, and loss of endangered
plants, animal migrations, and resource depletion, and this has been noticed in Manali
town as well. Singh (2013) while studying the impact of tourism in Himachal Pradesh
showed that Manali and Shimla are preferred destinations for summers due to the
pleasant climate. Both the hill stations have almost similar impacts of tourism
development activities. Unrestrainedtourism in Manali or in any tourist destinations
will pose a threat to natural habitats. Natural resources are under pressure due to
tourism activities and development. The tourism sector uses water resources for hotels,
swimming pools, golf courses, and personal use of water by tourists. This results in the
shortage and degradation of water sources.
CONCLUSION
Urbanization has resulted in tourism-related activities, which leads to environmental
disturbance. Mass tourism at a single site affects the natural resources. This results in
contamination of water, land resources, pollution in the air, and waste generation
during the peak season. Manali has grown from a small village into a big town. Local
people living in Manali are dealing with problems like, air pollution, traffic congestion,
deforestation, solid waste, water pollution, etc. due to rapid influx of tourist There it is
important that for minimizing environmental impacts, planning, regulation, incentives,
physical hardening and education must be combined. By keeping the development side
by side, people will have to maintain their morality and not degrade the
morality.Tradition will have to be re-adopted. It is important that the Government
departments should take measures for creating awareness among masses for
conserving environment. Thus, there is need of assessing the impact of tourism with
regard to the environment for effective policy formulation. Environmental problems
must be monitored and laws and regulations must be executed strictly for sustainable
tourism.
REFERENCES
[1]. Buckley, R. C. (1990). Environmental impacts of tourism and recreation in national parks
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[2]. Duim, R.V.D. and Caalders, J. (2002). Biodiversity and Tourism–Impacts and
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[3]. Sunlu, U. (2003). Environmental impacts of tourism In Local resources and global trades:
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Web Sources
http://tcp.hp.gov.in/
https://himachaltourism.gov.in/destination/manali/
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