Manali tour operators oppose trekking camps by outsiders

Dipender Manta

Tribune News Service

Mandi, July 18

The Adventure Tour Operators Association, Manali, has opposed the concept of mass trekking by outside tour operators in Kullu and Manali. It says that the practice will have an adverse impact on the environment, besides posing a threat to the lives of tourists.

Pintu, a spokesperson for the association, says, “We are against camping on trekking routes being organised by outside tour operators. This compromises the safety of tourists, besides causing damage to the environment. The practice has also affected the livelihood of local youths”.

“It will not in any way benefit the local economy. Moreover, with the entry of outside tour operators, employment opportunities for young and professional local entrepreneurs will diminish,” he adds.

Pintu has urged the Tourism and Forest Departments in Kullu to allow permission for trekking in small-sized groups with the maximum strength of 15 trekkers and one guide for five persons. Fixed camping should be discouraged and mobile camping should be promoted. For the trekking purpose, the services of local professional guides and crew should be taken, as they are aware of the tough terrains of the Kullu-Manali region.

“A monitoring committee comprising the Forest Department and village representatives should be constituted to keep a close vigil on trekking routes and provide rescue services in case of an emergency,” says Pintu.

He says they are taking up the issue with the authorities concerned to generate awareness to safeguard the livelihood of local people and protect the environment.

He alleges trekking operators based outside Himachal are exploiting their natural resources and damaging the fragile eco-system of the mountains. “We are unhappy with the state, as it has amended the miscellaneous adventure activities Act. It is allowing non-Himachali firms to do small business such as trekking in the state,” he adds.