The Rush to Explore, the Failure to Preserve
The
Rush to Explore, the Failure to Preserve
"In
our quest to discover new tourist destinations, we often neglect to preserve
them, leaving behind pollution that mars their pristine beauty."
Peerzada
Mohsin Shafi
In today's fast-paced world, where daily life is often consumed by
routine and responsibilities, people have found solace in escaping to nature. A
weekly trip to explore new tourist destinations has become a common ritual for
many, providing a much-needed break from the hectic schedules of modern living.
This tradition of seeking respite in nature, however, is not a new phenomenon;
it has been a longstanding practice for years, embraced by people worldwide.
Whether it’s partying and recreational activities abroad, or family outings
within our own country, the desire to unwind in natural surroundings is a
shared pursuit.
In particular, the Kashmir Valley, with its breathtaking
landscapes, attracts tourists from all corners of the globe. Each district of
the region boasts its own set of local attractions, ranging from serene gardens
to crystal-clear springs, and sweeping views of verdant valleys and mountains.
Historically, travelers flocked to popular, well-known spots.
However, as is common with human nature, the desire for novelty and the search
for new experiences has led to a shift in preferences. Just as tastes in food,
fashion, and entertainment evolve over time, so too has the urge to discover
untouched, unexplored places. These hidden gems, though not yet widely known,
offer a tranquil escape from the worries of daily life and provide an
opportunity for mental rejuvenation. In Kashmir, such pristine, undiscovered
locations can be found scattered throughout the valley, awaiting the curious traveller.
I had the privilege of visiting some of these exotic spots, such as
Ahlan Kokernag and the upper reaches of Daksum. The experience was
awe-inspiring. The sheer beauty of the lush forests and towering trees left me
speechless. Daksum, in particular, offers a picturesque view, with its clear,
fresh water adding to the charm of the area. What was once an area that few
dared to explore is now becoming a popular destination, with campers setting up
sites in places that were previously untouched.
While it’s heartening to see young people connecting with nature,
there’s an undeniable downside. As the influx of visitors increases, so does
the pollution. What once was a pristine environment has begun to show the
visible scars of human activity. Plastic bags, food wrappers, and other forms
of litter are now a common sight in these beautiful, untouched spots. Sadly,
many people fail to take responsibility for cleaning up after themselves,
leaving a trail of waste behind. The once serene and pollution-free water
bodies are now tainted with refuse, a reflection of the careless attitudes
towards the environment.
Another concerning issue is the damage being caused to the natural
habitat in the pursuit of a good time. The trunks and barks of trees are being
cut down for bonfires, further contributing to the destruction of the region’s
"green gold." The wanton disregard for nature in these areas is not
just troubling, but a form of sheer madness.
The Ahlan area, part of the Kokernag region, provides another stark
example of this environmental degradation. A place of unmatched natural beauty,
the road from Vailoo to Ahlan is a thrilling adventure for any traveller. But
it’s disheartening to see that this once pristine area is now being marred by
pollution, as more and more visitors flock to the region. The picturesque
forests and narrow roads, which once enhanced the beauty of the place, are now
being tainted by human carelessness.
One of the major environmental casualties in the Ahlan area is the
Mawar Nallah, a famous stream that once flowed with great Vigor. According to
locals, the construction of a nearby Small Hydroelectric Power (SHP) project
has diverted the water from its natural course. The water is now used to
generate electricity for the Dandipora station, leaving the local population to
bear the brunt of high electricity bills, despite being directly impacted by
the environmental changes. Worse still, the area has been designated as a
proposed muck disposal site for an upcoming tunnel project, which could
exacerbate the environmental damage further.
In conclusion, while the pursuit of exploring new, exotic places
offers a sense of adventure and escape, it is important to recognize the
environmental toll that this increasing human activity has on these natural
treasures. We are, knowingly or unknowingly, damaging the delicate ecosystems
we cherish so much. The once untouched landscapes are rapidly deteriorating,
and it is high time we reflect on the path we are treading. We must adopt a
more responsible and civic approach towards nature, respecting the sanctity of
these ecosystems rather than exploiting them for temporary pleasures.
It is essential that the government steps in to impose stricter
regulations on such activities, and that the public, especially the younger
generation, is made more aware of the consequences of their actions. If we do
not act now, we risk leaving a legacy of environmental destruction that future
generations will bitterly regret.
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