Can you save the Himalayas? Our answer, yes.

First came the shock.

European Commission DG ECHO

Then a steady trickle of photos that apparently dismayed people. It happened in an instant, as the world watched in horror. The Himalayas, which perhaps seemed the most protective, comforting aspect of life in the hills of India, had turned their backs on humanity. More or less. Although cloudbursts are common in the hills, mountains are the obvious saviors. But this time, Uttarakhand, Nepal and Himachal Pradesh did not see the mountains at their best.

The debates have been furious and will continue for months as the destruction has been widespread and irreparable. But while the groans of those affected have found a voice, at least for now, there is a soft murmur that still lingers.

Yes, it’s the Himalayas talking. In a vague murmur of disapproval, beaten to one and all in their own way. It is one of the youngest mountain ranges in the world, it has seen degradation at an alarming rate.

Blasted and torn right through its heart to allow urbanization, it has finally found a guy. The glaciers in the upper reaches of the range are melting; at a pace fast enough to make you sit up and take notice. To add to this, there is the timber mafia, ruthlessly cutting trees in the ecologically sensitive area, making it more fragile than ever before. Plus, a complete lack of awareness. A perfect recipe for another disaster.

Fortunately, we, the travelers, still have time left. Some effort, awareness and a sense of empathy among hordes of travelers who descend on the Himalayas every year could go some way to turning the clock needles.

Here are some easy-to-follow steps you can take as an individual to save the young mountain range we so proudly refer to as the Himalayas.

MESSAGE FROM THE MOUNTAINS

A major cause of increasing vulnerability, forest fires appear to be a major cause. These have increased since tree felling was banned in the Himalayan belt. Knowingly or otherwise, people found a way out in the hills. Through forest fires. Planned and executed in a way that makes it look natural, these fires help get the wood, which contributes to the rapid erosion. So the next time you see that orange streak from a forest fire, don’t forget to notify your local authorities. For all you may know, it could be a man-made one.

SAY NO TO THE APPROACH

A stay in a super exclusive resort in the middle of the Himalayas may sound like a dream holiday. But before choosing one, read the region’s land policy. It may be an illegal trait, located in the “off human” area of the range. Do not hesitate to report such a case. And, of course, don’t stop at any of these. Remember the first chapter on economics that you thought was supply due to demand?

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Okay. It is indeed a great idea to climb a peak in the Himalayas, pitch a tent, drink a beer and read a book there. But what’s clearly not a good idea is all the trash you leave behind. Yes, we’re talking about things as little as a plastic bottle and a toffee wrapper. Most of this stuff is not degradable because it lodges itself in the hills as another pollutant. Go by the saying – “Leave nothing but footprints.”

STAY AWARE, ENGAGE SPY

Look closely at the log burning in front of that cheerful bonfire you are so enthusiastically enjoying. In all likelihood it is a freshly chopped limb from a pine or similar tree. Felled before it was dry. All in an effort to set a new standard of hospitality by the resort staff. To start with, CONFRONT and if that doesn’t help REPORT. There’s nothing like a raised voice.

PRACTICE AND PREACHING

While we agree that it’s great to make an effort as an individual, as a tourist you can do more. When it comes to ecology, we recommend that you follow the adage “Practice and Preach.” While you’re not littering the hills of course, pick out the empty cans, poly bags and the like. Pull it up and throw it at a recycling facility. Changing from person to person is a commendable achievement.

PROTEST

While we hope these easy-to-follow steps and suggestions get you thinking, we’re open to more ideas. For any suggestion that you think should have a platform like ours, please post a comment. We’ll be happy to hear it.