Why Many Tourist Places in India Are Still Not Beautified Properly

A very valid question and indeed leaves all of us flummoxed. The non-beautification of tourist spots in India despite the availability of money and tourists is a complex issue that requires an in-depth analysis. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this unfortunate state of affairs, using the example of Kutch and Gujarat to illustrate the points.

Observations from Kutch

Recently, I visited Kutch, a district in Gujarat, India, after about five years. It was a birding trip, led by experts, and focused on visiting bird habitats rather than tourist spots. The wide roads and beautiful landscape of Kutch fascinated me. The terrain is spectacular, and it extends beyond the White Rann salt desert, revealing endless roads and grasslands. However, the contrast between natural beauty and the overall cleanliness was striking.

We found every village littered with garbage, and towns that looked like roadside garbage dumps. On our way to Mandavi beach, we passed through the main town, which had a small lake where we observed an abundance of birds, but also significant filth. The lake was a sight of garbage, including old ruins and even a well filled with garbage, and a temple surrounded by waste. This situation, despite being one of the most progressive states in the country, raises questions about the effectiveness of government efforts.

Reasons Behind the Lack of Beautification

The lack of proper beautification can be attributed to two primary reasons:

1. Lack of Community Pride and Care

We, as a community, do not show pride in our heritage, history, places, culture, or nature. The value we give to these spots is often perceived only when they are significant religious sites. Consequently, the lack of pride leads to a lack of demand for better facilities and maintenance from the government. Europeans, for instance, take great pride in their heritage and nature, which is evident from the efforts they put into beautifying these places.

2. Commercialization Over Conservation

Beautification in the tourist industry often involves bringing in a complete package, including shopping centers, food stalls, and luxurious accommodations, at the expense of the essence of the place. For example, during our visit to the White Rann in Gujarat, we saw a grand entrance, tents, cars, crafts bazaars, and an overwhelming number of visitors. This commercialization diminishes the sanctity and tranquility of these natural wonders, turning them into tourist attractions that require endless selfies and noise rather than contemplation and wonder.

Consequences of Inaction

The lack of proper maintenance and beautification of tourist spots in India has profound consequences. While natural beauty is untouched, the overall cleanliness and hygiene of these places suffer significantly. Gujarat, with its beautiful landscapes and splendid natural formations, remains a top tourist destination. However, the lack of cleanliness and lack of genuine effort to maintain and beautify these places detract from the overall experience.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Both the government and the community need to recognize the value of these historical and natural sites. While advertising and attracting tourists is crucial, it is equally important to ensure that these places retain their beauty and sanctity. It's high time we started caring for what is around us. Let's strive to maintain these places not just for tourism but for the preservation of our heritage and the natural environment.