Beneath the sun and sands: Appraising coastal tourism impact through community perceptions in West Bengal, India

Abstract

Coastal tourism is a dynamic sector that significantly impacts the environment, economies, and communities of coastal regions. This study focuses on the coastal tourist spots in the Digha-Shankarpur Planning Area of West Bengal, India, and addresses the growing concerns about the environmental consequences of rapid coastal tourism development. A survey was conducted with 110 local residents from Digha, Shankarpur, and Mandarmoni using a Likert scale-based interview schedules. Statistical analyses were employed to evaluate the data, assess perceptions of environmental impacts, and understand variations based on location, education, and occupation. The findings revealed strong perceptions of negative environmental impacts by local residents, encompassing concerns about noise pollution, sewage and waste dumping, habitat fragmentation, and forest clearance, among others. Subgroup analyses indicated variations in perceptions based on location, education, and occupation, highlighting the link between these factors and environmental awareness. This research contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of coastal tourism's environmental implications and provides valuable insights for policymakers, stakeholders, and local communities. The proposed policy recommendations aim to strike a balance between tourism development and environmental conservation, ensuring the long-term sustainability of coastal tourism in West Bengal.