Urban Planning Solutions to Overtourism in Himalayan Tourist Destinations Through Smart Technologies
摘要
Overtourism in the Himalayas presents intricate issues for urban planners, legislators, and local populations. Prominent locales like Shimla, Gangtok, Darjeeling, and Manali endure considerable pressure from the swift surge of tourists, affecting urban infrastructure, local ecosystems, and cultural heritage sites. Primary issues encompass overcrowding, environmental degradation, water scarcity, and inadequate transit infrastructure. These mountainous locales are especially sensitive due to their delicate ecosystems, inadequate infrastructure, and economies reliant on seasonal variations, rendering them more prone to challenges such as soil erosion, deforestation, and loss of biodiversity. The seasonal characteristics of tourism exacerbate demand during peak times, diminishing the quality of guest experiences and depleting local resources. Although tourism generates significant economic advantages, many locations are at risk of enduring unsustainability without adequate management. This study examines how intelligent urban design, enhanced by technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), might alleviate the adverse impacts of overtourism while promoting sustainable growth. Case studies from Himalayan locales illustrate how strategic urban design may manage tourist flow, enhance resource efficiency, and safeguard delicate ecosystems, thus harmonising the interests of visitors with those of local inhabitants and fostering enduring sustainability.