Greens demand policy for eco tourism spots (ToI)

Greens demand policy for eco tourism spots Paul Fernandes, TNN | Aug 19, 2013, 11.09 AM IST PANAJI: A comprehensive protocol and guidelines for areas fast becoming popular as eco tourism spots in the hinterland is the need of the hour, say environmentalists. More than 30 waterfalls in the panoramic Chorla ghat area have become popular spots for weekend visits by visitors from the state and tourists from Karnataka and Maharashtra. But the mounds of plastic waste piling up in the lap of Sahyadri has raised fears, as it is causing irreparable damage to the eco fragile areas. "The carry capacity of such areas needs to be fixed and the people need to be sensitized that protected areas are meant for wildlife first," Nirmal Kulkarni, a wildlife researcher said. Further, he stated that the law enforcement agencies need to crack the whip against people who create a mess in forest areas. The rush to the waterfalls and misty hills is becoming a sort of a craze among the urban dwellers. Picknickers head for the tranquil spots with food, liquor and leave behind a nauseating trail of waste in the sylvan surroundings. The forest department has enforced some curbs in a few areas. A gate has been erected in Surla on Goa's border. "Vehicles cannot enter the area and people are checked to see if they carry liquor to the Paikacho Sado," a source said. But environmentalists feel a comprehensive policy to cover other areas is needed. "This should be done on priority before the damage reaches uncontrollable proportions," an activist said. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/Greens-demand-policy-for-eco-tourism-spots/articleshow/21910255.cms