As thousands of tourists continue to flock to Manali during the peak summer season, concerns are mounting over the deteriorating sanitation conditions at the town’s entry points, where visitors are reportedly being welcomed by heaps of garbage and an unpleasant stench.
Known internationally for its scenic beauty, snow-capped mountains and vibrant tourism industry, Manali remains one of Himachal Pradesh’s most sought-after destinations. However, residents and tourists alike say that the first impression of the town is increasingly being marred by visible waste accumulation along its outskirts and gateway areas.
Contrast Between Mall Road and Entry Points
Ironically, while the bustling Mall Road remains well-maintained and continues to attract tourists for leisurely morning and evening walks, the conditions at the town’s entrance present a stark contrast. Piles of garbage and foul odour at several locations have sparked criticism from local residents, who argue that cleanliness efforts should extend beyond the town centre.
Residents Express Disappointment
Residents Ghanshyam and Jeevan expressed disappointment over the situation, stressing that a tourist destination’s image begins at its entrance. They compared the condition of Manali’s gateway to garbage being dumped outside the entrance of one’s own home.
“Manali is our home. If guests arrive and see heaps of garbage at the entrance, it reflects poorly on all of us. No one would tolerate such conditions at their own doorstep, and the same standards should apply to Manali,” they said.
The residents emphasised that cleanliness campaigns and slogans alone would not address the growing problem. They urged the Manali Municipal Council to formulate and implement a concrete waste management strategy. They also highlighted the need for greater public awareness, pointing out that many tourists dispose of waste irresponsibly, aggravating the problem.
Tourists Share Concerns
Tourists visiting the hill station echoed similar concerns. Mohammad Tufel from Uttar Pradesh and Priya Sharma from Delhi said that the sight of garbage at the town’s gateway creates an unfavourable impression despite Manali’s natural charm.
“Manali is famous across the world for its beauty. Seeing garbage and foul smell at the entrance is disappointing and does not match the image of such a renowned tourist destination,” they said, urging authorities to strengthen sanitation measures.
Official Response
When contacted, newly elected Municipal Council Chairman Chandra Devi Bodh declined to comment, stating that she had not yet assumed office and would be able to respond after taking oath. Efforts to reach the Municipal Council’s Executive Officer were unsuccessful.
Responding to the concerns, Manali SDM Gunjeet Singh Cheema acknowledged that waste generation rises sharply during the tourist season. He said authorities are making efforts to maintain cleanliness and added that a meeting of all stakeholders would soon be convened to discuss long-term solutions to the growing waste management challenge.
