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Madikeri: Nestled amidst the lush Western Ghats, Kodagu, commonly known as Coorg, has long been celebrated as the "Scotland of India." The picturesque landscapes, coffee plantations, and a vibrant cultural tapestry have made it a coveted destination for tourists seeking a serene escape. However, recent trends reveal that the district has become the 7th most searched travel destination by Indians on Google in 2023, signifying a surge in tourism.
While this may seem like a positive turn for the local economy, a closer look unveils a narrative of discontent among the residents, raising concerns about the sustainable impact of tourism on Kodagu. In the 2023 Year in Search, Kodagu has secured the seventh spot as one of the most trending travel destinations in India.
Residents unhappy:
Kodagu outperformed Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Italy, and Switzerland in the rankings, surpassing not only its Karnataka counterparts like Mysuru, Hampi, and coastal areas but also leaving them considerably behind in popularity.
Several local residents have expressed their concerns about the burgeoning tourism industry, citing various issues that have disrupted the harmony of their lives. Mithun Kaverappa, a resident from Mdaikeri said, "the influx of tourists has transformed our once quiet villages into bustling hubs. The constant noise and traffic have taken away the tranquility we once enjoyed."
Pavan Ponnacha, another resident from Cherambane echoes this sentiment, saying, "tourism has brought economic benefits, but it has also strained our resources. The demand for water, especially during peak seasons, has led to shortages in some areas. Our natural resources are under stress, and the local administration seems overwhelmed."
Ganesh Kuttappa, a resident of Siddapura, points out the impact on the local ecosystem, stating, "The uncontrolled development to accommodate tourists like resorts and homestays is encroaching upon our forests and wildlife habitats. We are witnessing a decline in biodiversity, and this is alarming for those of us who have called this place home for generations."
Infrastructure challenges:
The surge in tourism has placed a strain on Kodagu's infrastructure. Roads, originally designed for local traffic, now struggle to handle the influx of tourist vehicles.
Devi Bopanna, a coffee planter from Gonikoppal, said, "The roads are congested, and the infrastructure is not equipped to handle the sheer volume of tourists. This not only affects our daily commute but also poses safety concerns. For the last one week during the Christmas holiday we have seen long traffic in Gonikoppal town which is because of tourists. "
Environmental concerns:
The fragile ecosystem of Kodagu is facing unprecedented challenges due to tourism. Large-scale construction, waste disposal issues, landslides and drought this year have raised environmental alarms.
Prasanth Kumar, a Somwarpet based coffee planter emphasizes, "the unchecked development is leading to deforestation and degradation of our natural habitats. We must strike a balance between tourism and conservation to ensure the long-term sustainability of our region."
Threat to culture and heritage:
The influx of tourists has also brought about cultural changes that concern the local population. Sangeetha Bopanna said, "Our ancestral traditions and cultural heritage face the imminent threat of being eclipsed by the rampant commercialization of our festivals and practices. Numerous resorts and homestays in Kodagu are capitalizing on our rich culture, using it as a lucrative attraction for tourists.”
“The essence of our Kodava community's culture, which holds profound significance, is being exploited for commercial gains by these establishments. Witnessing the dilution of our cultural identity solely for the benefit of tourism is truly disheartening,” she added.
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