Karnataka: In Karnataka, a significant challenge has emerged in the tourism sector as only 40% of homestays are officially registered. This issue is particularly pronounced in the scenic Western Ghats, where the rise in homestays, driven by the growing demand for eco-tourism, has led to a surge in unregulated accommodations.
Key Concerns:
- Unregulated Growth: The Western Ghats, a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, has seen a proliferation of homestays. However, many of these operate without proper oversight, raising concerns about safety, legality, and environmental impact.
- Disguised Resorts: Some properties, which are essentially full-fledged resorts, are being misclassified as homestays to bypass stricter regulations. These establishments offer luxury accommodations but do not adhere to the guidelines meant for authentic homestays, which are supposed to provide a genuine local experience hosted by families.
- Revenue Loss and Environmental Impact: The lack of registration results in lost revenue for the state due to uncollected taxes and legal fees. Moreover, unregulated growth contributes to overcrowding in the Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, leading to potential environmental degradation and strain on local resources.
- Safety Risks: Registered homestays are subject to inspections to ensure they meet safety standards, including fire safety and hygiene. Unregistered properties, however, do not undergo these checks, potentially compromising guest safety and leading to dissatisfaction and legal disputes.
Government Response:
- Increased Pressure for Regulation: Tourism and government officials are calling for stricter enforcement of registration requirements and regular inspections. There is a push to raise awareness among property owners about the benefits of registration, such as increased visibility, legal protection, and credibility.
- Sustainable Tourism Development: As the popularity of homestays continues to rise, addressing these regulatory issues is crucial for the sustainable development of tourism in Karnataka. Ensuring that all properties are registered and follow state guidelines will help protect the environment, ensure safety for visitors, and contribute to the state’s economy.
Efforts are underway to balance the growth of the homestay sector with necessary regulations to foster a safer, more sustainable tourism environment in Karnataka’s Western Ghats.
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