‘Rowdy tourism’ on the rise in U’khand; officials mull over stricter measures

DEHRADUN: A spate of recent incidents involving unruly tourists in Uttarakhand’s popular hill destinations — including Rishikesh, Mussoorie and Nainital — has triggered concerns over the rise of “rowdy tourism” in the state, with authorities saying that tackling the problem is becoming an increasingly challenging task.Officials said that rash driving, use of unauthorised beacon lights, blaring horns and tourists standing dangerously through sunroofs or leaning out of car windows have become increasingly common in the Himalayan state.In Rishikesh, a woman from Haryana was caught drinking in public, while in Nainital, the son of a Uttar Pradesh MLA allegedly misbehaved with a sub-divisional magistrate. Other incidents include a tourist being thrashed for misbehaving at an eatery in Rishikesh, and a visitor from Haryana being stopped from smoking along the sacred Tungnath route.Authorities say liquor consumption along the banks of the Ganga continues despite enforcement from time to time. They noted that such incidents not only disrupt public order but also tarnish the image of the state as a peaceful tourist destination. Officials are now exploring stricter enforcement measures, including increased police presence, tighter checks and possible penalties to deter misconduct.DGP Deepam Seth told TOI that vigilance and regular monitoring is being maintained. “There have been several instances recently when such acts by tourists were stopped by our teams and action was taken against the guilty,” he said, adding that vigilance is being maintained at key tourist destinations and more personnel will be deployed with the onset of peak tourist season.Tourism secretary Dhiraaj Singh Garbyal emphasised the need for awareness drives at key tourist destinations and tourist rest houses. “We need to educate hotel, rest house, camp and homestay owners and also tell visitors about the dos and don’ts. While the police team will take required action in such matters, our role is to make tourists and locals realise the importance of responsible tourism,” he said.Meanwhile, social activist Anoop Nautiyal warned that the opening of the Delhi-Dehradun expressway could worsen the situation. “Tourists will arrive in Dehradun in larger numbers which will pave the way for more instances of unsafe and rash driving. Authorities need to chalk out a proper strategy and deploy force at key tourist locations. At the same time, tourists should also act responsibly,” he added.