India is working together with other nations to ensure that tourism in Antarctica tourism is sustainable, as the increasing number of tourists poses a risk to its fragile environment. The management of Antarctic tourism will be discussed during the Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting and the Committee for Environmental Protection, which will take place in Kochi, Kerala, from May 20 to May 30.

M Ravichandran, the Secretary of India's Ministry of Earth Sciences, has highlighted the need for proper regulations for Antarctic tourism. The Ministry is preparing to host the 46th session of the ATCM and the 26th CEP meeting.

Antarctica tourism
Source: NDTV

Public Access to Indian Research Stations of Antarctica tourism

Ravichandran mentioned potential plans to allow the public to visit Indian research bases in Antarctica. He stressed the importance of controlled tourism to protect Antarctica’s ecosystem. India is leading the initiative, with support from other countries, to establish regulated tourism practices.

A trip to Antarctica for research purposes can cost about Rs 1 crore per person. India maintains two research stations in Antarctica tourism, Maitri and Bharati, which are operated by scientists from various Indian institutes all year round. The annual maintenance cost for these stations is between Rs 150 and Rs 200 crore.

Antarctica tourism
Source: The Economic Times

Maintenance and Waste Management Protocols in Antarctica tourism

Ravichandran assured that the research stations are well-maintained and undergo regular checks to remain in top condition. Strict waste management rules are followed, including the transport of all waste back to the mainland.

The number of tourists visiting Antarctica has been on the rise, with thousands traveling there each year, mainly through Argentina or Chile.

Antarctica tourism
Source: BBC

The ATCM will discuss and propose criteria for tourists visiting Antarctica to ensure their visits do not harm the environment.

Tourism in Antarctica started in the 1950s and has grown since then. The IAATO reported over 100,000 visitors in various capacities for the 2022-23 season.

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