Endless green hills draped in lush tea plantations and cascading waterfalls describe Kerala, known as God’s Own Country, a destination famed for its peace and tranquillity. However, a recent landslide in Wayanad has claimed the lives of at least 150 people. In response, Kerala has issued a rare warning, advising against visits to the affected areas.
Warning Against Dark Tourism
The Kerala Police have issued a message urging people to avoid visiting tragedy-hit areas for sightseeing, as it hampers rescue operations. The message on the Kerala Police’s X handle states: “Do not head to tragedy-hit spots for sightseeing. It will affect rescue operations. For help, please call 112.”
The Phenomenon of Dark Tourism
Dark tourism, also known as thanatourism, involves visiting locations associated with death and tragedy. This trend is not new; historical examples include spectators at the Battle of Waterloo and public hangings in France.
Global Hotspots for Dark Tourism
- Auschwitz – A former Nazi concentration camp.
- Chernobyl – The site of the 1986 nuclear disaster.
- Gettysburg – The site of a significant Civil War battle.
- Dealey Plaza – The location of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination.
Dark Tourism in India
India also has dark tourism sites:
- Cellular Jail, Port Blair – A former prison known for its brutal conditions during British rule.
- Roopkund Lake, Uttarakhand – Known for the skeletal remains found at the site, the origin of which remains a mystery.
- Kuldhara Village, Rajasthan – An abandoned village with legends of its sudden desertion.
Growing Curiosity
According to a study by Passport-photo.online, 82% of surveyed Americans have visited dark tourism sites, with many expressing interest in war zones like Ukraine.
Academic Perspectives on Dark Tourism
- Philip Stone, executive director of the Institute for Dark Tourism Research, suggests that dark tourism reflects a cultural fascination with death and disaster.
- J John Lennon, a tourism professor, notes that dark tourism has historical roots and highlights humanity’s tendency to explore dark aspects of history.
Impact of Dark Tourism
Dark tourism often involves visiting sites linked to recent tragedies or disasters. This can interfere with rescue efforts, as seen in Kerala, where the influx of tourists can obstruct emergency operations.
Case Study: Otto Warmbier
In 2015, Otto Warmbier, a U.S. student, was detained in North Korea for allegedly stealing a poster. After 17 months of imprisonment and being released in a coma, he died shortly after returning to the U.S. Despite this, interest in visiting dark tourism sites persists.
Conclusion
While dark tourism provides insights into historical and current tragedies, it also poses ethical questions and practical concerns, such as hindering rescue efforts during ongoing crises.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
1. What recent event has led Kerala to issue a warning against dark tourism?
- A) Floods
- B) Landslide
- C) Earthquake
- D) Tsunami
- Answer: B) Landslide
2. What is the primary concern of Kerala Police regarding dark tourism?
- A) Environmental damage
- B) Disruption of rescue operations
- C) Increased traffic
- D) Financial losses
- Answer: B) Disruption of rescue operations
3. Which historical site is associated with dark tourism for its role as a Nazi concentration camp?
- A) Gettysburg
- B) Chernobyl
- C) Auschwitz
- D) Dealey Plaza
- Answer: C) Auschwitz
4. What was the cause of Otto Warmbier’s death after his release from detention in North Korea?
- A) Natural causes
- B) Disease
- C) Torture
- D) Accidental injuries
- Answer: C) Torture
5. According to the study by Passport-photo.online, what percentage of Americans have visited dark tourism sites?
- A) 50%
- B) 62%
- C) 72%
- D) 82%
- Answer: D) 82%