A viral video showcasing the massive crowds at Guchhupani Cave, also known as Robber’s Cave, in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, has reignited concerns about overcrowding at popular tourist destinations. The video, shared on Instagram, shows tourists navigating the narrow passage in long queues, highlighting the chaotic situation caused by the overwhelming number of visitors.
A mountain guide’s Instagram post has shed light on the dangerous conditions and overcrowding on Mount Everest. Four climbers were nearly killed when a cornice collapsed during their descent, and two are still missing. The guide, Vinayak Malla, shared videos of the ordeal, which showed hikers facing perilous conditions.
Due to overwhelming crowds, UK tourists planning to visit Dubrovnik, Croatia during peak season are advised to reconsider their plans or explore alternative destinations within the country for a more enjoyable experience.
Indian Railways faces the challenge of providing affordable travel for millions of people while also ensuring profitability. The shift towards premium services, such as AC coaches, has created overcrowding in lower classes and raised concerns about the affordability of train travel for the masses. The National Rail Plan 2030 projects a higher growth rate for AC passengers, leading to concerns about the future of non-AC coaches. The railways are grappling with the dilemma of balancing their social obligations with the need for economic viability.
Beginning Wednesday, Seoul Metro will enhance subway services on lines 4 and 7 during peak hours to alleviate overcrowding and improve commute times for passengers. On Line 4, two extra rides will be added during the morning peak, while Line 7 will receive two additional rides during the evening rush hour. These measures aim to reduce congestion rates to below 150 percent and ensure a more comfortable commuting experience. Seoul Metro is also exploring artificial intelligence technology to optimize crowd control strategies and enhance service schedules based on real-time data.
Venice has implemented an entry fee of €5 for day visitors between 8.30am and 4pm, aiming to address the city’s excessive tourism and preserve its World Heritage status. The fee is primarily targeted at short- and medium-range daytrippers from neighboring regions of Italy, rather than foreign visitors. The scheme is not intended to generate revenue but to deter visitors on peak days and achieve a better balance between residents and tourists. The first day of implementation saw positive feedback from some visitors, who expressed support for measures to protect Venice.
To curb overcrowding and protect pristine natural habitats, several national parks are implementing timed-entry reservation systems in 2024. Visitors should secure tickets in advance to avoid disappointment upon arrival.
