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EXCEEDING CARRYING CAPACITY IS UNSUSTAINABLE

Alok k. Shrivastava,Ex- Chief Secretary, Sikkim

Carrying Capacity (C.C.) may be defined as the maximum load that can be sustained without causing destruction or degradation of the environment.

When we speak of C.C., it is determined by factors such as population size, the amount of resources available in a given area, and how the population utilizes those resources. If a place exceeds its C.C., adverse impacts on available resources become inevitable. A time will come when the area can no longer sustain the current population or any further additions.

 

When it comes to the real picture, a wide gap is evident between what exists and what ought to be. Philosophically, this represents the difference between a positive (what is) and a normative (what should be) situation.

C.C. is influenced by the availability of food, water, and space. If these elements are disturbed or degraded, the environmental impact may be slow but devastating.

State of Sikkim

Referring to Sikkim, the 22nd state of the Union, it is botanically rich and blessed with almost all climatic zones. Its biodiversity is truly remarkable. Nowhere else in the world can so much flora and fauna be found in just 7,096 square kilometers.

It may be a tiny landmass, but it hosts a plethora—indeed, umpteen—tourist attractions and relaxation spots across its six districts.

However, the population pressure is concentrated largely in Gangtok—similar to the situation in Imphal, Manipur—and three adjoining towns. A close examination of population density becomes crucial here.

Pressure of Tourism

The growth of tourism as a vehicle for development is generally welcomed across the world. However, it is both desirable and necessary that tourists respect local norms and laws, ensuring minimal harm to the resources they temporarily enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts

Before delving deeper, let’s consider some basic behavioral patterns. Most tourists use plastic water bottles, styrofoam products, and single-use polythene, perhaps unaware that alternatives are available. Littering from moving vehicles is also common.

Plastic bottles, styrofoam, and polythene bags have been banned in Sikkim since 1989. For truly responsible visitors, abiding by these rules should be a fait accompli.

Public urination, smoking, and littering—such as tossing napkins and wrappers from hired vehicles—are frequently observed. Shockingly, some tourists even bring LPG cylinders, a practice that is strictly prohibited.

The practice of taking semi-nude photographs at high-altitude sites like Chhangu Lake, Nathu La, Yumesamdong, and Katao must be curbed through firm and permanent measures.

Behind the Scenes

Environmental violations away from public view, often involving the Army, the BRO, and Central Government agencies, go unnoticed. The clandestine felling of quality timber for transportation or furniture-making must be stopped immediately.

Unregulated Construction

Despite clear orders from the Department of Urban Development, Government of Sikkim, banning construction during the monsoon, weak enforcement continues. Inexperienced laborers and poor supervision lead to frequent accidents. Heavy machinery exerts undue pressure on fragile land. Indiscriminate road widening and unregulated land use, compounded by inactive Forest Department oversight, worsen the situation.

Lessons from the GLOF of October 2023

The violent outburst from South Lhonak Lake in Mangan District occurred because preemptive action was not taken. Despite warnings and initial efforts to divert excess water, the anticipated tragedy unfolded on October 4, 2023. The Chungthang dam of the 1,200 MW Teesta Stage III Hydel Project was severely damaged, shattering the myth that low dams are safer.

Subsequent flash floods and cloudbursts at Dikchu, Sirwani, Singtam, Rangpo, and Melli resulted in over a hundred casualties and massive ecological damage along the Teesta River.

The increasing velocity of river water during pre-monsoon phases in recent years is a grim warning for the future.

Future of Hydel Projects

In light of the 2023 devastation, new hydel projects like NHPC’s Teesta Stage IV (below Mangan) and Stage VI (near Rangpo, West Bengal) must be reviewed or scrapped. Lower-dam projects between Rangpo and Sevoke also need critical reassessment, even if their risks appear lower.

The Dismal View from Ranka

The view of Gangtok from Ranka may be scenic, but it also reveals signs of impending disaster. Tall buildings stand packed with barely any space between them. Drainage is poorly planned, increasing the risk of buildings tilting or sinking over time. Green cover is conspicuously absent.

Garbage management remains ineffective despite repeated awareness efforts. Rainwater harvesting, though promising, has not been implemented meaningfully. Social forestry must be prioritized urgently to avert disasters during earthquakes or landslides.

 

Sikkim at a Glance

  • Area: 7096 Sq Kms
  • Capital: Gangtok
  • Altitude: 5,840 ft
  • Population: 6.10 Lakhs
  • Topography: Hilly terrain elevation from 600 to over 28,509 ft above sea level
  • Climate:
  • Summer: Min- 13°C - Max 21°C
  • Winter: Min- 0.48°C - Max 13°C
  • Rainfall: 325 cms per annum
  • Language Spoken: Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, Tibetan, English, Hindi