After SS Rajamouli in Odisha, another trekker expresses sorrow over littering atop snow-clad peak

A trekker’s recent social media post from Uttarakhand’s snow-covered Himalayas has reignited concerns over irresponsible tourism in India’s fragile ecosystems. Photographs shared on Reddit reveal gutkha packets, food wrappers, and liquor bottles littering pristine slopes at 9,000 feet, despite minimal tourist footfall.

“What’s stopping Indian tourists from picking up their own trash?” the user lamented, sparking outrage online.

SS Rajamouli’s Disappointment Echoed in Uttarakhand

The incident mirrors ace filmmaker SS Rajamouli’s recent dismay over trash strewn across Odisha’s Deomali peak, highlighting a growing environmental crisis.

Environmental Crisis at High Altitudes

The Uttarakhand post, depicting trails marred by spit stains, gutkha wrappers, and plastic waste, drew parallels to Rajamouli’s viral Instagram video from Odisha. After a solo trek to Deomali, the highest peak in Odisha, the RRR director shared breathtaking views overshadowed by plastic bottles and food packaging. “A little civic sense can make a huge difference,” he had captioned his post, advocating for visitors to carry back their waste.

Netizens Share Similar Grievances

Netizens echoed both accounts, sharing similar grievances. One trekker recalled finding liquor bottles on the Tungnath trail, while others criticized locals and tourists alike for normalizing littering at scenic spots.

Behavior Contrasts Between India and Abroad

Meanwhile, others also drew contrasts to behavior abroad, where Indians ‘face consequences’ for such actions. Further, many cited their visits to neighboring Sri Lanka and stated that cleanliness there persists even in local areas.

Mounting Environmental Pressure on India’s Destinations

India’s iconic destinations, from Himalayan peaks to Odisha’s forests, face mounting pressure from plastic pollution and apathy. These incidents highlight a broader challenge of responsible tourism amid the increasing volume of plastic waste and litter.