Madhya Pradesh’s budding cruise ship tourism industry has hit a roadblock as the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has imposed a ban on cruise boat operations in the state. The NGT emphasized that the water bodies in MP exist for the benefit of the people, and the state has an obligation to protect them.
The decision, which came into effect in September, has implications for the state’s cruise tourism sector. This sector has been gaining momentum in recent years, not only in MP but also in other states with extensive coastlines and inland rivers. One of the industry’s most ambitious projects, the luxury cruise on the Narmada River, is set to cover three states: Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.
However, the ban has raised concerns about the potential environmental impact of cruise boat operations on MP’s water bodies. While cruise tourism can boost local economies and provide unique recreational opportunities, it also poses challenges in terms of water pollution, habitat disruption and wellbeing of water bodies.
The NGT’s ruling underscores the need to prioritise the preservation of water bodies, which play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and providing resources for local communities.
Cruise tourism operators and stakeholders in the state will need to reevaluate their projects and potentially implement stricter environmental safeguards to address the concerns raised by the NGT. Balancing economic benefits of tourism with environmental conservation remains a challenge in many regions.
