Recent landslides in Wayanad, KeralaA sinister term has come into the spotlight: dark tourism. It refers to the morbid practice of visiting places associated with death, tragedy or disaster. During the rescue and recovery efforts in Wayanad, local authorities issued a strict warning against such behavior.

“Please do not visit disaster areas for tourism. This will affect rescue operations. Call 112 for assistance,” the Kerala police warned on X. Dark tourism is not only extremely disrespectful to victims and their families, but it can also hinder emergency operations. The influx of visitors to disaster sites can impede rescue efforts and cause additional trauma to those affected.

This incident underlines the importance of responsible tourism. While there is a morbid fascination with tragedy, it is important to remember the human cost behind such events. Respect for the affected communities should always be paramount.

Why is dark tourism controversial?

Dark tourism, a term coined for travel to places associated with death, tragedy, or horror, has become an increasingly controversial topic. From battlefields and concentration camps to disaster zones and crime scenes, these places attract visitors who want to confront their own mortality, learn from history, or simply experience the paranormal. This trend has given rise to a new breed of travel shows, such as Chernobyl and The Dark Tourist, which explore these dark destinations, offering viewers a glimpse into the world of dark tourism.

While some argue that dark tourism serves as a powerful educational tool, others argue that it exploits human suffering for profit. The ethical implications are complex, and the line between respectful remembrance and morbid curiosity is often blurred. But for now, it is important for us to be mindful of the feelings of local communities in Wayanad who are grappling with massive loss.