Amidst the New Year rush in Himachal Pradesh, Indian Forest Service officer Praveen Kaswan sheds light on the environmental impact as waste piles up near the Atal Tunnel.
In a social media post on X (formerly Twitter), Kaswan showcased an image revealing the alarming amount of trash in Sissu village, located close to the Atal Tunnel in Lahaul Valley. He questioned the responsibility of visitors amidst the surge in traffic, urging them to manage their waste.
The ‘Healing Himalayas’ foundation, dedicated to clearing tourist-generated waste, expressed concern as well. With nearly 10,000 vehicles entering the Atal Tunnel during the long weekend, the organization emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to address the issue.
Responding to the littering concern, the foundation mentioned the establishment of material recovery facilities in Himachal Pradesh, set to be operational from April 2024. They stressed the fragility of the ecosystem, requiring a distinct waste management approach.
As the New Year festivities attract tourists to Himachal Pradesh, authorities anticipate a significant influx. Shimla welcomed around 150,000 visitors on Christmas, with projections of 80,000 to 100,000 for New Year celebrations. The increasing footfall raises concerns about environmental conservation in the region.
