Manali's waste management crisis worsens during peak tourist season
What's the story
Manali, a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, is facing a severe waste management crisis. The problem has only worsened during the peak tourist season, with garbage piling up at major attractions such as Rohtang Pass and Solang Nala. According to a report by ANI, despite a ban on single-use plastics in the state, their use continues unabated, threatening local soil and forest resources.
Pollution impact
Garbage piles up at major attractions
The Volvo bus stand, HRTC bus stand, and Lady Willingdon Hospital are some of the places where tourists first encounter heaps of garbage and foul smells. Mall Road, a famous tourist spot, is also in bad shape with paan and gutkha stains on the walls and pathways. Locals have complained about delayed garbage collection in some wards under Manali Municipal Council till as late as 1pm.
Bin shortage
Dustbins needed to curb open littering
The lack of dustbins is a major issue, especially on Mall Road where only two or three bins are available along a 100-150 meter stretch. Locals have demanded at least 10-15 more dustbins to curb open littering. Tourists like Anupam from Ghaziabad and locals have noticed single-use plastics littering paths to major attractions such as the Hadimba Temple and Van Vihar.
Flood risk
Choked drains pose risk of flooding
Residents have also raised concerns about drains being completely choked with plastic waste, especially on Gompa Road. This could lead to major flooding during the monsoon season, causing loss of life and property. Tourist Ankush Garg from Delhi urged visitors to take responsibility for keeping the environment clean, and was quoted as saying, "This country and this place belong to us."
Twitter Post
Visuals of garbage piled up across Manali
#WATCH | Himachal Pradesh | Hill town of Manali faces severe garbage crisis due to influc of tourists in large numbers; locals and various stakeholders raise concerns over cleanliness pic.twitter.com/L0EW7WQ7kS
— ANI (@ANI) June 19, 2026