state forest department has identified five ‘eco-tourism circles’ and three ‘eco-tourism destinations’ which the department claims will act as “a game-changer in conserving the forests and environment of the Himalayan state.”
The circles, which officials say comprise of “different districts clubbed as one entity depending on their similarities in biodiversity and proximity to each other”, include
- Dehradun-Rishikesh-Tehri,
- Ramnagar-Almora-Nainital,
- Yamuna Tons valley,
- Haridwar-Pauri, and
- Tankapur- Champawat-Devidhura(Pithoragarh)- Nainital.
The three eco-tourism destinations are being developed at
- Ranikhet,
- Ramnagar and
- Dhanaulti.
Each circle and destination will be administered as per its ‘carrying capacity’ and only limited number of tourists will be allowed in the cluster so that its carrying capacity is not breached.
“Keeping in mind the vulnerabilities and strengths of Uttarakhand, we have come up with the draft of this policy. Carrying capacity remains the focus as we want quality tourism and responsible tourists. Only those who understand and respect nature, and want to spend quality time in our forests, lakes and mountains are welcome. Not those who go around disrupting natural surroundings and littering the area,”