Amid the increasing flow of tourists, both domestic and foreign, to Northeast India—thanks to the publicity and curiosity generated by the internet.
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Amid the increasing flow of tourists, both domestic and foreign, to Northeast India—thanks to the publicity and curiosity generated by the internet, as well as its beautiful natural landscapes, rich biodiversity, and diverse cultures—tragic incidents involving visitors have raised safety concerns of late. Two tourists from Kerala tragically drowned in Arunachal Pradesh last month (January 16) after the ice broke when they stepped onto the frozen Sela Lake despite safety warnings. On the same day, a tourist from Kolkata died in Sikkim due to suspected high-altitude sickness. Another tragic incident was reported in Nagaland last week, as the body of a man from Tripura was found in Dzükou Valley, nearly a month after he reportedly entered the popular tourist attraction. Kohima Police, the district administration, disaster management authorities, the Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) and tour guides launched a joint search operation after receiving a delayed report about his disappearance, but they found no trace of him. His body was retrieved by state police personnel and volunteers last week after some youth discovered his body in the valley, days after the search was discontinued. Police have ruled out any foul play in the death of the youth. These are not isolated cases. It happens around the world. The frequency of such cases raises safety concerns, underlining the importance of taking precautions, staying vigilant and adhering to established rules of the concerned authorities to prevent any mishaps while exploring unfamiliar places.
While most popular tourist destinations are generally safe, undermining safety protocols can lead to tragic outcomes, particularly in areas with extreme natural conditions and difficult terrains. Northeast India is known for hospitality and widely considered one of the safest regions for tourists, especially for women, compared to other parts of the country. However, several factors, such as weather conditions, geography, and local culture, should be considered when travelling to an unfamiliar location. For instance, Northeast India is predominantly characterised by high-altitude terrain. Several tourist destinations and trekking spots in the state, such as Dzukou Valley, Japfu Peak, and Saramati Peak, etc., pose a high risk of altitude sickness due to their elevations. Though the possibility of experiencing severe altitude sickness is lower for most tourists in the state, it is better to be safe than sorry. It is essential for visitors from low-altitude areas to give their bodies time to acclimatise to high altitudes. They should stay hydrated and descend to a lower altitude if they experience symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or nausea. Simple measures such as engaging local guides, respecting local culture, and avoiding risky locations can greatly contribute to a safe trip. The government should improve infrastructure and establish stringent safety regulations, which are essential for preventing avoidable tragedies, stopping exploitation, and minimising scams.