The Andamans are Fragile. Handle with Care!

This is the famous Radhanagar Beach in the Andamans. Pristine, isn’t it? Now what if we told you that this beautiful stretch of white sand may not remain the same a few years from now?

Being one of the most fragile ecosystems in the world, the Andaman Islands are currently grappling with a host of challenges. Right from plastic pollution and global warming to the spate of tourists flying in every year, the tropical forests, coral reefs and virgin beaches all stand a little vulnerable to exploitation and depletion.

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Why is Disaster Striking the Andamans?

Since 90% of this archipelago is enveloped in green covers, it is home to rare biodiversity, endemic species as well as ancient indigenous tribes. Moreover, the geographical location of the islands also makes them highly susceptible to natural disasters, and we are all aware of the trail of destruction that the devastating tsunami in 2004 left behind.

Vacationing in the Andamans and soaking in its rare offerings no doubt ranks high on every traveller’s bucket list. But how can we ensure that the natural beauty, unique ecosystems and local culture of the region remains untainted? How do we become responsible tourists?

Needless to say, preserving the islands will take humongous effort, both on part of the government and the citizens.

Steps Taken by the Governing Bodies towards Responsible Tourism in the Andamans

In order to maintain the delicate ecological balance, the authorities have set major goals and standards for the tourism sector. Some of these include:

• To keep a check on the quality of visitors. To put simply, if you are aware and compassionate about their ecosystem, you are welcome!
• Recreational activities, especially water sports, to follow strict standards so as to not harm the marine ecosystem
• All tourism-based architectural constructions to be sustainable, and reflect the island’s cultural ethics

While the government is trying its best to preserve the breathtakingly beautiful Andamans, it can’t be achieved unless we, as tourists, realize our responsibility.

Read More: Scuba Diving in the Andamans: An Unforgettable Experience

Simple Tips for being a Responsible Tourist in the Andamans

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Self-Educate: Doing some homework on the forests, reefs and marine life before you visit the islands will give you a vivid perspective about the importance of these fragile ecosystems. Also familiarize yourself with the local tribal cultures so that your presence is not seen as intrusive or threatening. As fascinating as the tribal people may seem, do respect their privacy and do not take pictures of them without their explicit consent.

Follow the law: Do not trespass prohibited areas and obtain all the necessary permits before visiting National Parks. Also take separate permits for photography and videography wherever required. While snorkeling or scuba-diving, take care to stay within the permitted areas as coral reefs are essential to the marine ecosystem. Being cautious is important for your own safety as well.

Say No to Littering: Dumping garbage and littering the environment with non-biodegradable matter is a crime against nature. Moreover, the plastic waste is lethal for coral reefs and marine life. Do not leave anything behind in parks, on beaches, in the sea or in public places, and take back only pictures and memories from the places you visit.

Respect Your Surroundings: As a tourist, your presence should not disturb or damage the environment around you. While in forested areas, avoid talking loudly so as to not startle the wildlife, and avoid campfires as they produce unpleasant smoke, and can even lead to large-scale forest fires.

The Andamans are also home to several places of historical interest. Soak in the stories but take care to not vandalize or damage the structures.

Stay Sustainable: Even through comfort may be important to you, avoid indiscriminate consumption of natural resources, water and electricity. Do understand that in far-flung places amenities may be scarce and may require judicious use. If possible, use local public transport or commute by foot wherever possible. Doing so reduces your carbon footprint.

Read More: 10 Best Things to Do in the Andamans

While these steps do not take a lot of effort to implement, they will ensure that  Andaman Islands remain as awe-inspiring tomorrow as they are today. Are you ready to be a new-age responsible tourist?

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