What is the importance of evaluating the carrying capacity of Himalayan States

The Centre has proposed to set up a panel to evaluate the carrying capacity of 13 Himalayan States. This raises the question of why evaluating carrying capacity is important for these states.
The evaluation of carrying capacity in Himalayan states is crucial due to several reasons:
  • Environmental preservation: The Himalayan region is characterized by its fragile ecosystem and vulnerable biodiversity. Evaluating carrying capacity helps in ensuring sustainable development and conservation of natural resources.
  • Tourism management: The Himalayas attract a large number of tourists, both domestic and international. Assessing carrying capacity helps in managing tourism activities, preventing overcrowding, and maintaining a balance between economic growth and environmental impacts.
  • Disaster risk reduction: The Himalayas are prone to various natural hazards like earthquakes, landslides, and avalanches. Understanding the carrying capacity helps in identifying vulnerable areas and planning for disaster risk reduction measures.
  • Infrastructure development: Carrying capacity evaluation assists in determining the appropriate level of infrastructure development in these states, including transportation, accommodation, and waste management facilities.
  • Social sustainability: The evaluation considers the impacts of population growth, cultural preservation, and community well-being. It helps in maintaining the social fabric and ensuring that development benefits the local communities.
Overall, evaluating carrying capacity in Himalayan states allows for sustainable development, preservation of the environment, and ensures the well-being of local communities.
Answered a year ago
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