By Tanisha Agarwal
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Published on June 13, 2025
On June 3, 2025, a viral video shared by content creator Saumya Pathak, also known as techiestraveller on Instagram, once again sparked discussions about the need for civic responsibility in India regarding the preservation of natural heritage. The video, filmed at Lapas Waterfall in Barot Valley, Himachal Pradesh, shows tourists engaging in irresponsible behavior by consuming alcohol and leaving behind a significant amount of litter, including plastic bottles and wrappers.
The fallout on social media has been swift and sharp, with netizens condemning the growing trend of disrespecting public spaces and fragile ecosystems.
The video in question shows groups of tourists lounging at makeshift picnic setups – tables and umbrellas – near the Lapas Waterfall, indulging in open alcohol consumption. What truly caught the public’s attention was not just the drinking but the aftermath: empty bottles and wrappers scattered across the natural site.
Pathak, in the video, lamented the state of the waterfall, saying, “Wherever there is a beautiful place in India, people will capitalise on it.” Her commentary echoed the frustration of many Indians who are seeing their country’s scenic spots turned into dumping grounds.
This incident is not an isolated one. From hills to beaches, India's tourist spots are frequently marred by reckless behaviour. The phrase “We lack civic sense,” used by Pathak in her caption, has struck a chord. Social media users pointed out the stark difference in behaviour compared to tourists in other countries – where outdoor drinking may be allowed, but littering is not.
One viral comment read: “Even in other countries, people drink outdoors, but they clean up. That’s the main issue.” Another highlighted a systemic issue: “Why can’t they teach civic sense, traffic rules, and basic constitutional law in schools? There needs to be a textbook on manners and civic responsibility.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/DKcXFkOpWX3/
Beyond the outrage, there’s a deeper concern for the environment. Waterfalls and rivers in the Himalayan region are not just aesthetic landmarks; they are vital ecosystems. Alcohol bottles and plastic waste pose a serious threat to local flora, fauna, and water sources.
Local residents and environmentalists in Himachal Pradesh have long raised alarms about the unchecked influx of tourists. The Barot Valley, once a peaceful hamlet known for its serene beauty and biodiversity, is increasingly struggling with crowd management and waste disposal due to unregulated tourism.
Incidents like these have triggered calls for tighter regulation at tourist sites. Suggestions range from deploying eco-volunteers and surveillance cameras to imposing strict fines on offenders. Additionally, tourism departments are being urged to promote sustainable travel practices and enforce a “leave no trace” policy.
At the root, however, lies a cultural gap in public behaviour and environmental education. Many argue that real change can only come through incorporating civic education into school curriculums and running national awareness campaigns about public responsibility.
The Lapas Waterfall video is more than just another viral post, it’s a wake-up call. As India’s tourism sector continues to grow, the responsibility of safeguarding its natural treasures must be shared by the government, educational institutions, and most importantly, the citizens themselves. Civic sense is not a luxury, it’s a necessity for any society that aspires to protect its environment and heritage for future generations.
