TOURISM in Pakistan has been affected by various factors in the past, including ineffective government policies, lack of facilities, poor security, etc. It has been hit hard by the recent and ongoing Covid pandemic. Tourism contributes about nine per cent to the global gross domestic product (GDP), but its share in Pakistan’s GDP is negligible despite the country’s great potential.

It is disappointing that tourists, both domestic and international, are well aware about the climate change phenomenon, but they are not willing to act responsibly. The careless attitude of tourists results in increased pollution which poses a threat to the environment.

Popular tourist activities, such as skiing, trekking, angling, paragliding, boating and photography, lead to littering, spread of plastic waste as well as noise, air and water pollution that together damage the natural ecosystem.

Murree, for instance, is a famous tourist spot in the country because of its natural beauty, mild climate, easy access and better facilities for tourists. It is also known as Malika-i-Kohsar, the Queen of the Hills. This hill station is overcrowded, especially during the weekends and vacations and heaps of garbage are left behind by the tourists all over the place. The problem is common at other tourist spots, like Naraan and Swat.

The responsibility to control pollution falls on both the tourists and the government. The tourists must exhibit environmentally responsible behaviour and follow the instructions given by the government, while the latter should enforce laws strictly and take action against those who violate them. It can follow the example of Singapore where heavy fines are imposed on the violation of rules and regulations.

Tariq Mahmood Khan
Faisalabad

Published in Dawn, July 9th, 2021