Concerns Rise Over Luxury Tourism Near Kaziranga National Park
Allegations have emerged that late-night events at luxury resorts near Kaziranga National Park are causing ecological pressure on the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Activists and experts are raising concerns about the impact of these activities and proposed tourism projects on wildlife and local communities.
By The Junior Post
Published
Recommended for ages 10+. Editorial guidance, not a guarantee of individual suitability.
Concerns are growing about the impact of luxury resorts and upcoming tourism projects near Kaziranga National Park in Assam. Reports suggest that late-night parties with loud music and bright lights at these resorts are causing stress to local animals and putting pressure on the park's environment.
Sanjib Borkakoti, an expert from the International Cultural Tourism Committee (ICOMOS) and the International Union and Council of Nature (IUCN), has written to the Director of Tourism, Assam, about these issues. He believes that such commercial activities break wildlife laws and disturb the animals. He also claims that some luxury hotels operate with support from powerful people, caring more about money than protecting wildlife.
In May 2024, Assam Tourism Minister Jayanta Mallabaruah announced plans for three new hospitality projects. However, by July 2024, the foundation stones for these projects had not yet been laid. Local residents have protested against two high-end hotels near the park, especially in the Inle Pothar area, which is a traditional home for elephants.
A report from July 2024 by Guha highlighted environmental and social worries about these planned tourism developments. Activists are asking the government to respect the rights of farmers who live on the land where these projects are planned. The 2025 Conservation Outlook Assessment for Kaziranga National Park notes that while the park is well-managed, it faces increasing pressure from tourism and visitors. It also mentions that while rhino poaching has been controlled, other problems like unregulated tourism and climate change still exist.
Knowledge Vault
UNESCO World Heritage Site
A UNESCO World Heritage Site is a place that is recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) as having special cultural or natural importance to all of humanity. These sites are protected to ensure they are preserved for future generations. Kaziranga National Park is one such site, valued for its unique wildlife.
Wildlife Corridors
Wildlife corridors are areas of habitat that connect wildlife populations separated by human activities or structures, like roads or buildings. They allow animals to move safely between different areas, which is important for finding food, mates, and new homes. Building projects near national parks can disrupt these corridors, making it harder for animals to move.
Environmental Impact
Environmental impact refers to the effects that human activities, such as building new hotels or holding loud events, have on the natural world. These impacts can include disturbing animals, changing their habitats, or causing pollution. Understanding environmental impact helps people make choices that protect nature.
Check your understanding
- What is one of the main concerns raised about events at luxury resorts near Kaziranga National Park?
- They cause traffic congestion on major transport routes.
- They are too expensive for local tourists.
- They offer too many different types of food.
- They are not popular enough.
- Who is Sanjib Borkakoti?
- A local farmer protesting land projects.
- The Director of Tourism, Assam.
- An expert member of ICOMOS and IUCN.
- A spokesperson for Hyatt Hotels.
- What is a key demand from activists regarding land proposed for tourism projects near Kaziranga National Park?
- To build more luxury hotels.
- To increase the number of late-night events.
- To recognize farmers' rights over the land.
- To stop all tourism in the area completely.