394

ECONOMIC, SOCIO-CULTURAL AND PHYSICAL IMPACTS OF

TOURISM

(A Case Study of Elephanta Caves, Matheran Hill Station, Janjira Fort and Palis Shri

Ballaleshwar Ganesha)

5.0 INTRODUCTION

5.1 METHODOLOGY

5.2 THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF TOURISM DEVELOPEMNT

5.3 THE SOCIAL-CULTURAL IMPACT OF TOURISM

DEVELOPEMNT

5.4 THE PHYSICAL IMPACT OF TOURISM DEVELOPEMNT

395

5.0 INTRODUCTION

In the previous topic economic, social and demographic characteristics of

tourist who visited the Raigad district were analyzed on the basis of primary

data. Most of the tourist had came from nearby cities and villages. They were of

different castes, religions and having different economic status. They also

visited various tourist destinations of the Raigad district.

The local persons provide facilities like accommodation, food, transport,

amenities to the tourist. That is why tourists enjoy the destination but some of

the destinations do not provide such facilities and services. Therefore these

problems are the causes of economical, social and cultural impact of the region.

Researcher has found that attitude and responses of tourist on residents and their

impacts are influenced by several factors. Here is an attempt has been made to

evaluate economic, social and cultural impacts for Elephanta Caves, Matheran,

Janjira fort and Pali in Raigad district. These centers are comparaively more

rushed and crowdy than the other tourist centers in the district.

Tourism is an industry with enormous economic impacts. It is also an

industry that has many social and cultural or physical consequences. Tourism

like many other industries is often used as a national or regional development

tool. In general, tourism development within a host community often has impact

on the community both in positive and negative ways. These impacts have been

well documented and are usually classified as economic, social and cultural

impacts.

Tourism is a cause for economic and changes in socio-demographic

factors such as age, gender, income, length of stay, education level ethnicity.

Tourism is a commercial activity and therefore tourism can create employment

opportunities, foreign exchange earnings and also increases the standard of

living of host people.

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Tourism brings more opportunities to upgrade facilities such as outdoor

recreation, park and roads and also socio-economic benefits to the local

community, in terms of faster economic growth, larger jobs, foreign exchange

earnings, balanced development of weaker areas and higher revenue to the state

and causes sustainable human development.

Tourists spend their money on a wide variety of goods and services. They

purchase food and beverage, transport and communication, entertainment

services, and also spend on accommodation, goods from retail outlets and tour

or travel services. This money may be seen as an injection of demand into the

host economy. However the value of tourist expenditure represents only a

partial picture of the economic impacts.

The impact brought about by the interaction of host and guest is a well

documented phenomenon. Positive type of interaction provides a favorable

association between the tourist and their socio-cultural impacts. Tourists

influence on the behavioural change of the host population.

Tourism has been charged not only with the debasement of socio-cultural

factors but also with degradation of the environment. As well as it is

contributing to changes in value system, individual behaviour, family

relationship, collective lifestyles, safety levels, moral conduct and community

organization. Attractions, accommodation, ancillary services and amenities are

the basic element of tourism. These elements help to indicate the development

of tourism in the district. For that purpose Elephanta Caves, Matheran. Janjira

Fort and Pali destinations are evaluated through this point of view.

5.1 METHODOLOGY

The residents attitude survey has been the common method that is used

for the assessment of economic, social and physical or cultural impacts of

tourism. In this approach respondents were asked to indicate their behaviour and

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attitude towards the impact of tourism development. Attitude survey can

provide useful information about the impacts of tourism on the residents and

society. The impact study is an attempt to examine empirically the residents

perception of impacts of tourism rather than measure of actual impacts. For the

assessment of the impacts, community groups residents were selected at four

centers, Elephanta Caves, Matheran, Janjira fort and Pali. A questionnaire was

designed exploring respondents perceptions of the wide range of economic,

social and cultural impacts.

For measuring the attitudes of the residents towards tourism development,

indicated descriptive statistic analysis was used. This measurement scale

consists of 11 variables reflecting the perceived economic impacts, 15 variables

reflecting socio-cultural impacts and 8 variables reflecting physical impact of

tourism on residents. Respondents were asked to provide answers on each

variable which was measured by a seven point Likert Scale ranging from -3

strongly disagree to +3 strongly agree with 0(zero) no response or undecided.

Likert scale is a measurement instrument which is used in quantitative

research. It contains a number of statements or indicators with a scale. In such

scale no judges are used to rank the scale statements; it is assumed that all

subject will perceive strongly agree a expressing greater favour towards the

attitude statement than moderately agree and strongly disagree with the attitude

represented (Likert, 1967, Lankford, 1994).

The questions or statements help to understand the economical, social and

cultural or physical impacts of the tourists on residents of a respective region.

These impacts should be expressed positively and negatively to encourage

respondents not to respond automatically but to think about every items.

There are seven response alternatives for every attitude statements. These

are strongly disagree, moderately disagree, disagree, no response or undecided,

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agree, moderately agree and strongly agree. The resulting ranging from - 3 to +

3 ( - 3, - 2, - 1, 0, + 1, + 2, + 3) to find individual overall attitude of the

residents.

5.2 THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

Tourism alters the economic structure of a destination. The economic

impact of tourism is the subject of analysis at two ways. One is generally

positive about industry prospects while other is negative. Tourism is a major

element of sources of capital and income to the local people. The economic

significance of tourism activity is taking place, but also by the type and nature

of economy being considered.

Tourists spend their money on a wide variety of goods and services and

related tourism products. The economic impacts of tourism more is known

about the economic benefits of tourism than the associated costs. Tourism can

create employment opportunities, earn foreign exchange, produce return on

investment for emerging economics, bring technology and improve standard of

living. Tourism can also help to generate jobs and increase revenue to local

people and shopping facilities. Tourism can cause major effect on economics of

destination area for price of land to rise rapidly.

Tourism development has often received support from the government

and local residents. Therefore for the sustainable development of tourism one

should take balanced view towards the economic impacts of tourism which

assess both the benefits and cost of tourism development.

Here, the economic impact of tourism development on destination is

understood at the local level and mostly to understand the present status of

tourism development in the Raigad district and selected case studies. Tourism

is encouraged at the local level due to ability to generate employment in hotels,

resorts, restaurants, cottages, parks, transport operators, travel agents,

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entertainment and local business. Also change their lifestyle and it provides

support to the other sectors of the economy.

The economic impact of tourism has been commonly be viewed as a

positive force which increases total income for the host country, direct and

indirect employment and tax revenues; it also stimulates secondary economic

growth. Economist consider the tourism as an basic income from tourism, it

helps to pay for goods and services, imported from other regions and

contribution to government revenues through taxes, that can be used to develop

community and infrastructural facilities and service to asset in general economic

development.

5.2.1 Economic Impact Indicators of Tourism Development

1. Increase in the income of residents

2. Opportunity for shopping

3. Opportunity for jobs

4. Demand for female labour

5. Increased cost of land and housing

6. Increase in general prices of goods and services

7. Rental houses as a source of income

8. Scarcity of essential goods during season

9. Degradation of cultural and commercial goods

10. Increased the number of hotels / resorts

11. Commercial view point of local people

5.2.2. Perception of Residents Response to Economic Impact of Tourism

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For the assessment of economic impact of tourism on the residents,

responses were collected at selected destinations in the Raigad district. Impact

of tourism is calculated through mean given in the table

ECONOMIC IMPACT OF TOURISM

ON RESIDENTS OF ELEPHANTA CAVES, MATHERAN, JANJIRA FORT AND PALI

Sr.

No

Indicators

Elephanta

Caves

Matheran Janjira Pali

Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD

1 Increase in the

income of residents

2.12 0.77 2.24 0.62 2.08 0.72 2.06 0.76

2 Opportunity for

shopping

2.2 0.69 2.14 0.69 2.16 0.73 2.06 0.73

3 Opportunity for

jobs

2.08 0.72 2.12 0.77 1.22 1.36 1.04 1.33

4 Demand for female

labour

-1.8 0.72 -1.96 0.66 -1.78 0.92 -1.9 0.85

5 Increased cost of

land and housing

2.14 0.72 1.78 0.70 2.02 0.76 1.98 0.73

6 Increase in general

prices of goods and

services

2.04 0.77 1.12 0.99 2.08 0.74 2.12 0.71

7 Rental houses as

source of income

-1.92 0.74 1.58 0.78 1.98 0.71 2.06 0.73

8 Scarcity of essential

goods during

season

-1.98 0.73 -1.92 0.72 -1.84 0.70 -1.92 0.74

9 Degradation of

cultural goods to

commercial goods

-1.88 0.68 -1.92 0.67 -1.68 0.93 -1.68 0.93

10 Increased in the

numbers of hotels /

resorts

1.92 0.74 1.46 1.25 1.88 0.77 2.1 0.75

11 Commercial view

point of local

people

1.76 0.91 1.3 1.08 1.04 1.26 0.96 1.18

0.61 2.04 0.71 1.86 0.83 1.86 0.81 1.88

Source: Compiled by Author SD= Standard Deviation

Table 5.1 Economic Impact of Tourism on Residents of Elephanta Caves, Matheran, Janjira Fort and Pali

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Table 5.1 highlight attitude of the residents at Elephanta caves, Matheran,

Janjira fort and Pali, perception towards the tourism development with positive

economic effects such as increase in the income of residents, increasing

opportunities for shopping, increase in jobs, increasing the cost of land and

housing, increase in general price of goods and services, increase in the number

of hotels/ resorts and commercial view point of local people.

Residents of Elephanta caves felt that the tourist cause the higher effect

on the increase in the income of residents (+2.12), increasing opportunity for

shopping (+2.2), increasing opportunity for jobs (+2.08), increasing the cost of

land and housing (+2.14), increase in general price of goods and services

(+2.04), increase in the number of hotels/ resorts (+1.92) and commercial view

point of local people (+1.76). On the other side residents of Elephanta caves

have observed and noted negligible economic impact on the demand for female

labour ( -1.8), rental houses as source of income (-1.92), scarcity of essential

goods during season (-1.98) and degradation of cultural goods as commercial

goods (-1.88). An Elephanta cave is an island and located very close to

Mumbai, so that tourists have made maximum economic impacts of tourism on

residents of Sheth Bandar and Mora Bandar.

Residents of Matheran feel that the tourist causes positive economic

effects on the increase in the income of residents (+2.24), increasing

opportunity for shopping (+2.14), increasing opportunity for jobs (+2.12),

increase cost of land and housing (+1.78), increase in general price of goods and

services (+1.12), rental houses as source of income (+1.58), increasing number

of hotels and resorts (+1.46) and commercial view point of local people (+1.3).

On the other hand the residents of Matheran have refused the economic effects

of tourism development to the local people for some indicators such as demand

for female labour (-1.96) scarcity of essential goods during season (-1.92) and

degradation of cultural goods as commercial goods (-1.92).

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The residents attitude towards economic effect of tourism on Janjira fort

(Rajpuri village) felt that, it was found that the positive effects on local

community like increase in the income of residents (+2.08), increasing

opportunities for shopping (+2.16), increased opportunity for jobs (+1.22),

increase in the cost of land and housing (+2.02), increase in general prices of

goods and services (+2.08), rental houses as source of income (+1.98)

increasing numbers of hotels and resorts (+1.88) and commercial view point of

local people (+1.04). But residents of Rajpuri village deny the economic

impacts on demand of female labour (-1.78), scarcity of essential goods during

season (-1.84) and degradation of cultural goods as commercial goods (-1.68)

due to tourism development in this place.

Perception of residents attitude towards the economic effects of tourism

on Pali, there were some positive effects such as increase in the income of

residents (+2.06), increasing opportunities for shopping (+2.06), increased

opportunity for jobs (+1.04), increase the cost of land and housing (+1.98),

increase in general prices of goods and services (+2.12), rental houses as source

of income (+2.06) increasing numbers of hotels and resorts (+2.1) and

commercial view point of local people (+ 0.96). On the other hand resident of

Rajpuri village have noticed negligible effects such as demand of female labour

(-1.9), scarcity of essential goods during season (-1.92) and degradation of

cultural goods as commercial goods (-1.68).

As compared to the other destinations in Raigad district is having more effects

because of the maximum local people depend on tourism activity. So, there is

no alternative for economic development of these tourist centers. These centers

are self significant as cultural, natural, historical and religious attractions.

It is observed that the impact of tourism on the local economy of four

centers is nearer to equal and has good effect. That means the positive effects

help to develop the economy of the region such as increase in income of the

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residents, increasing jobs and shopping facilities, but the rate of the effect is

very low.

ECONOMIC ATTITUDE INDEX- MEAN AND

PERCENTAGE OF RESPONDENTS Sr.

No

Average Score

Percentage of Respondents

Elephanta

Caves

Matheran Janjra

Fort

Pali

1 +2.00 to +2.99 19.46 15.64 18.23 18.35

2 +1.00 to +1.99 28.00 28.27 30.36 30.91

3 +0.00 to +0.99 15.27 23.27 17.45 16.91

4 0.00 1.27 1.82 5.27 5.10

5 -0.00 to -0.99 10.55 10.18 10.64 10.73

6 -1.00 to -1.99 18.00 14.55 11.64 11.64

7 -2.00 to -2.99 7.45 5.64 5.64 6.36

Source: Compiled by Author

Table 5.2 Economic Attitude Index mean and Percentage of

Respondents

Table 5.2 indicates that, the overall attitude index-mean of economic

impact on residents of Elephanta caves, Matheran, Janjira fort (Rajpuri) and

Pali. About 19.46 per cent residents of Elephanta caves have strongly agree with

small positive economic impact other than Matheran, Janjira fort and Pali. Now

these tourists centers are popular. Mostly neighboring tourists are frequently

visited to that place during the weekend and holiday time. About 4.64 per cent

residents of Matheran and Janjira fort (Rajpuri), disagree with economic

impacts.

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RESIDENTS ATTITUDE INDEX MEAN

Destination Index Mean S.D. /

Elephanta Caves + 0.61 2.04

Matheran + 0.71 1.86

Janjira Fort + 0.83 1.86

Pali + 0.81 1.88

+ indicates the positive impact

- indicates the negligible impacts

Higher the values larger the effects

Source: Compiled by Author

Table 5.3 Residents Attitude Index Mean

Table 5.3 highlight that mean attitude index mean for Elephnata caves is

+0.61, Matheran +0.72, Janjira fort is + 0.83 and Pali + 0.81. These values

indicates the overall small positive effects of tourism. Because all above

destinations have become popular and attractive. Elephanta caves is culturally

famous for World Heritage Site, Matheran is famous hill station, during the

summer season large number of tourists get atracted to Matheran for enjoyong

the natures beauty. Janjira fort located near to Murud town and reminders the

history of Siddis Nabab and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, lastly Pali is holy

place and one of the Ashthavinayaks Ganesh, tourist believing this god. So

people visit to that places frequently.

5.3 THE SOCIO-CULTURAL IMPACT OF TOURISM

DEVELOPEMNT

The social impact of tourism development refer to changes in the quality of

life of residents of tourist destionation. Social impacts not only benefit for the

development of tourism but also intraction between residents and visitors and

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promote social transformation. The speed and concentration and the magnitude

and direction of social impacts must be taken into account when attempting to

attribute the cause of scoial impacts.

The social and cultural impacts of tourism are the way in which tourism is

contributing to change in value system, individual behaviour, family

relationship, life style, safety level, moral conduct, religion, language,

interpersonal relationship at the destination. These social impact affect on the

local people of host communities of their direct and indirect association with

tourists. Firstly, tourist purchasing some goods or services from the local

people. Secondly tourist and local people find themsleves sideby side and

thirdly tourists come face to face with the object of exchanging information and

ideas. This third sitaution is more important for international understandings.

However, the first two are common.

The tourist is mobile,relaxed, free spending, enjoying the leisure and

absorbing the experience of being in a different places whereas the local people

are stationary and employed in the tourist industry, spend a large portion of the

time for needs and desire of visitors.

The demonstration effect is also an aspect of the direct social impact of

tourism. Tourist influence the behaviour of the host population. The local

people tend to observe and learn the life style of the richer visitors from affluent

societies and try to emulate their way of life. However expansion of tourism,

cuase cultural commercialization, increase in crime rate, gambling, drug abuse,

prostitution is common. Thus impacts of tourism on traditional life styles are

important, where these traditions are considered from the basis of the tourism

development.

The impacts of tourism mainly depends on tourist and destination factors.

The tourist factors are those which tourists bring to the destination, it includes

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demographic characteristics,social differences and number of visitors.

Destination factor are those that are part of the destination itself. It includes

travel linkage and circulation, local acceptance of tourism and local vitality and

leadership.

In respect of social imapcts of tourist destination there is a problem by host

which are of different ways such as positive and negative impacts. The number

of tourists remain below this critical level because of economic impact is

positive. Mostly the presence of tourist in the destination area is welcoming and

accepted by majority of local people. The attitude of the host people towards the

tourism development may unfold through apathy, irritation and potentially

antagonism, when anti-tourist attitude begin gaining among host of people,

when the carying capacity is over which is known as peak point. Because due

to the tourist arrival the size of the local population and their facilities and

services are congested. Therefore over use of the infrastructure ultimately

affects the destination lifestyle on the tourists also shy away from a degraded

destination.

5.3.1 Socio-cultural Impacts Indicators of Tourism

For the assessment of scoial impact of the tourism on residents of Elephnata

caves, Matheran, Janjira fort and Pali. The following parameters are taken into

account.

1. Increase in density of population

2. Quality of police protection

3. Strain on police protection

4. Increase in crime rate

5. Commercialization of tradition and customs

6. Improved standard of living

7. Change in occupational structure

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8. Role of MTDC/ ASI in development of this pilgrimage / cultural centers

9. Spreading of epidemics

10. Active participation of local social organization towards the facilities of

tourists

11. Increase in the activities of drug abuse and gambling

12. Increase in the activities of prostitution

13. Duel pricing system and attitude towards bargaining

14. Change in values, norms and customs

15. Awaking general awarness towards the preservation of cultral heritage

and traditions

5.3.2 Perception of Residents Response to Socio-cultural Impact of Tourism

For the assessment of socio-cultural impact of tourism on the residents,

responses at selected destinations in Raigad district are collected. Impact of

tourism is calculated through mean given in the table

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SOCIO- CULTURAL IMPACT OF TOURISM ON RESIDENTS OF ELEPHANTA CAVES, MATHERAN, JANJIRA

Source: Compiled by Author

Table 5.4 Socio- Cultural Impact of Tourism on Residents of Elephanta Caves, Matheran, Janjira Fort and Pali

Table 5.4 highlights the residents response to the social impacts of

tourism on Elephanta caves, Matheran, Janjira fort and Pali. The positive social

impacts includes increase in density of population, improved standard of living,

Sr.

No

Indicators Elephanta

Caves

Matheran Janjira Pali

Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD

1 Increases in density of

population in the town /

village

2.24 0.81 2.36 0.77 2.28 0.78 2.24 0.81

2 Quality of police protection

improved

-1.64 0.79 -1.4 1.06 -1.2 1.17 -1.4 0.96

3 Strain on police protection -0.64 1.25 2.1 0.73 -1.7 0.85 -1.88 0.65

4 Increase in crime rate -0.38 1.28 -1.52 0.85 -1.64 0.87 -1.08 1.31

5 Commercialization of

traditions and customs

-0.26 0.56 -0.14 0.63 -0.14 0.63 -0.20 0.63

6 Improved standard of living 1.88 0.77 1.8 0.63 1.98 0.62 1.88 0.65

7 Change in occupational

structure

2.54 0.73 2.58 0.70 2.08 0.66 2.16 0.67

8 Role of MTDC / ASI in

development of this pilgrim/

cultural centre

2.36 0.79 1.66 0.79 2.14 0.75 1.86 0.72

9 Spreading of epidemics -1.16 0.67 -1.08 0.72 -0.72 1.06 -1.74 0.93

10 Increase the activities of drug

abuse & gambling

-1.72 1.02 -1.42 0.98 -1.7 0.92 -1.76 0.88

11 Increase in the activities of

prostitution

-1.92 0.91 -1.96 0.75 -1.62 0.89 -1.4 1.02

12 Active participation of local

social organization towards

the facilities of tourists

2.18 0.77 0.96 1.13 2.12 0.77 2.9 0.30

13 Duel pricing system and

attitude towards bargaining

1 1.28 2.1 0.70 0.7 1.49 1.48 1.27

14 Changes in values, norms

and customs

1.7 0.92 1.76 0.88 2.14 0.72 1.7 0.92

15 Awaking general awareness

towards the preservation of cultural heritage and

traditions

2.36 0.79 2 0.75 2.1 0.73 2.36 0.79

0.64 1.91 0.65 1.83 0.45 1.89 0.47 1.98

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change in occupational structure of residents, role of MTDC/ ASI in

development of tourism, active participation of local social organizations

towards the facilities of tourist, duel pricing system and attitude towards

bargaining, changes in values, norms and customs and awaking in general

awareness towards the preservation of cultural heritage and traditions. On the

other side of the socio-cultural impacts is a negative effect on residents. It

includes improved quality of police protection, strain on police protection,

increase in crime rate, commercialization of traditions and customs, spreading

of epidemics, increase the activities of drug and abuse and gambling and

increase in the activities of prostitution.

It reveals from table 5.4, residents in the Elephanta caves felt that the

tourist make positively social effect of increase in density of population (+2.24),

improved standard of living (+1.88), change in occupational structure of

residents (+2.54), role of MTDC/ ASI in development of tourism (+2.36), active

participation of local social organizations towards the facilities of tourist

(+2.18), duel pricing system and attitude towards bargaining (+1.00), changes in

values, norms and customs (+1.7) and awaking in general awareness towards

the preservation of cultural heritage and traditions (+2.36). On the other hand

other indicators show negative effect on residents, such as the quality of

police protection (-1.64), strain on police protection (-0.64), increase in crime

rate (-0.38), commercialization of traditions and customs (-0.26), spreading of

epidemics (-1.16), increase the activities of drug abuse and gambling (-1.72)

and increase in the activities of prostitution (-1.92).

The residents of the Matheran feel that it has an effect on some social

indicators such as increase in density of population (+2.36), strain on police

protection (+2.1), improved standard of living (+1.8), change in occupational

structure of residents (+2.58), role of MTDC/ ASI in development of tourism

(+1.66), active participation of local social organizations towards the facilities

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of tourist (+0.96), duel pricing system and attitude towards bargaining (+2.1),

changes in values, norms and customs (+1.76) and awaking in general

awareness towards the preservation of cultural heritage and traditions (+2.00).

On the other side all other indicators reflects the negative effect of tourist on

residents such as the improved quality of police protection (-1.4), increase in

crime rate (-1.52), commercialization of traditions and customs (-0.14),

spreading of epidemics (-1.08), increase the activities of drug and abuse and

gambling (-1.42) and increase the activities of prostitution (-1.96).

It reveals from table 5.4 that, the residents of Janjira fort (Rajpuri village)

feel that it has an effect on some positive social indicators such as, increase in

density of population (+2.28), improved standard of living (+1.98), change in

occupational structure of residents (+2.08), role of MTDC/ ASI in development

of tourism (+2.14), active participation of local social organizations towards the

facilities of tourist (+2.12), duel pricing system and attitude towards bargaining

(+0.7), changes in values, norms and customs (+2.14) and awaking in general

awareness towards the preservation of cultural heritage and traditions (+2.1). On

the other hand, other indicators show negative effect on residents. Such as the

improved the quality of police protection (-1.2), strain on police protection (-

1.7), increase in crime rate (-1.64), commercialization of traditions and customs

(- 0.14), spreading of epidemics (- 0.72), increase the activities of drug abuse

and gambling (-1.7) and increase the activities of prostitution (-1.62).

Tables 5.4 explain that, the assessment of social effect on residents of Pali

village. There are some positive indicators such as increase in density of

population (+2.24), improved standard of living (+1.88), change in occupational

structure of residents (+2.16), role of MTDC/ ASI in development of tourism

(+1.86), active participation of local social organizations towards the facilities

of tourist (+2.9), duel pricing system and attitude towards bargaining (+1.48),

changes in values, norms and customs (+1.7) and awaking in general awareness

411

towards the preservation of cultural heritage and traditions (+2.36). On the other

hand other indicators show negative effect on residents Pali village such as the

quality of police protection (-1.4), strain on police protection (- 1.88), increase

in crime rate (-1.08), commercialization of traditions and customs (-0.20),

spreading of epidemics (-1.74), increase the activities of drug and abuse and

gambling (-1.76) and increase the activities of prostitution (-1.4).

All the tourist destinations are very attractive, pleasant and recently

developed tourism site. There can be both positive and negative social impacts

resulting from tourism. These impacts depend on the type and intensity of the

tourism developed as well as the characteristics of the host society. It is found

that different community groups have varying reactions to their tourism

development, with no consequences reached by the whole community. The

social impact shows the positive effect as compared to other destination, it

shows maximum impact. But these positive and negative effects should change

seasonally. Therefore positive impact shows the remarkably starting the

development of tourism in Raigad district but this rate is low.

SOCIAL ATTITUDE INDEX MEAN AND PERCENTAGE

OF RESPONDENTS Sr.

No

Average Score

Percentage of Respondents

Elephanta

Caves

Matheran Janjra

Fort

Pali

1 +2.00 to +2.99 22.67 17.73 16.13 20.13

2 +1.00 to +1.99 18.93 23.60 22.93 19.87

3 +0.00 to +0.99 14.53 18.67 15.07 13.87

4 0.00 10.27 7.20 8.27 8.53

5 -0.00 to -0.99 15.73 15.73 16.80 15.60

6 -1.00 to -1.99 13.07 13.20 15.33 15.07

7 -2.00 to -2.99 4.80 3.87 5.47 6.93

Source: Compiled by Author

Table 5.5 Social Attitude Index Mean and Percentage Respondents

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As shown in Table 5.5, the perceived impacts of tourism by residents

were measured by 15 impact items embodying both the benefits and costs of

tourism. Based on the mean and measures of impact items, some of the social

impacts that were most favored by Elephanta caves residents about 22.67 per cent of residents strongly agree with 15 items which is index score range from

+2.00 to +2.99. About 18.93 per cent residents moderately agree with social

indicators ranges from +1.00 to +1.99, About 14.53 per cent of residents on

Elephnata caves agree with such facilities which is index mean in +0.00 to

+0,99. About 10.27 per cent of residents no response towards social impact.

Index mean score ranges from -0.00 to -0.99, 15.73 per cent residents disagree

with social indicators on Elephnata caves. About 13.07 per cent residents index

score in between -1.00 to -1.99.and about 4.80 per cent residents index score

ranges from -2.00 to -2.99, that means strongly disagree with social impact.

The residents of Matheran, about 23.60 per cent resident moderately

agree with the 15 social indicators. About 3.87 per cent residents response is

strongly disagree with the social parameters and about 7.20 per cent residents

no response towards the social attitude . Residents of Janjira fort (Rajpuri

village) observed the 22.93 per cent local people moderately agree with social

attitude, about 5.47 per cent residents strongly disagree with the social attitude

and 8.27 per cent no response towards the social attitude of positive and

negative indicators. For Pali, about 20.13 per cent residents have noticed

strong agreement with social attitude, about 6.93 per cent residents have put

result strongly disagree with social attitude and 8.53 per cent residents have no

response with this attitude ,

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RESIDENTS ATTITUDE INDEX MEAN

Destination Index Mean S.D. / Elephanta Caves +0.64 1.91

Matheran +0.65 1.83

Janjira Fort +0.45 1.89

Pali +0.47 1.98

+ indicates the positive impact

- indicates the negative impacts

Higher the values larger the effects

Source: Compiled by Author

Table 5.6 Residents Attitude Index Mean

As shown in table 5.6 residents attitude index mean for Elephanta caves

is + 0.64 , for Matheran + 0.65, for Janjira fort + 0.45 and for Pali + 0.47.

That means there is a less effects of tourism on resdents of all tourist centers

agree with this effect of tourism on the social environment. The positive socio-

cultural indicators indicate good sign for the development of tourism in the

Raigad district.

The local ecomony of all tourist centers depends on tourism activity.

Majority of domestic and foreign tourists visit Matheran, Elephnata caves, and

Janjira fort during the summer and winter season. Both tourist enjoy the natural

beauty and experience the joy of toy train of Matheran, for taking pleasure of

sculpture carved in one stone of Maheshmurti. On Janjira fort tourists reminds

the history of Siddhi Nabab and Chhtrapati Shivaji Maharaj. But in case of Pali

holy place, tourists get attracted throughout the year for praying tributes Lord

Ganesh. Mostly devotees visit on the occasion of Ganesh Jayanti (Maghi

Chathurthi), Ganesh Chathurthi, Sankasthi and Vinayaka Chathurthi.

All the tourist places are located very close to Mumbai and Pune, tourist

do not accommodate for a long period of time. So there is no high rate of social

impact on the such tourist centers. Therefore positive social impact is a good

sign for the development of tourism in the Raigad district.

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5.4 THE PHYSICAL IMPACT OF TOURISM

Tourism lends itself to interaction between hosts and guests which can be

catalyst for change in cultural and community life (Smith, 1998). The physical

impact of tourism can be more difficult to assess as they are more of a

subjective or qualitative measures of impact on a destination in contrast to

quantitative economic measurement (Mason, 2003),

The cultural or physical impact of tourism needed careful consideration

as impacts can influence a community either positively or negatively. Tourism

can create great pressure on local resources like energy, food and other raw

materials. Greater extraction and transport of these resources exacerbates the

physical impacts associated with the exploitation.

Physical congestion experienced at the destination, increasing demand for

natural resources and also contributes to the source of solid waste residual

which creates the problem of air pollution, water and noise pollution,

degradation of environmental factors, development of construction for

accommodation, parking, water supplies, restaurants and recreational facilities.

Therefore the physical impacts are on the local communities of their direct and

indirect association with the tourists.

Generally, tourist generate a great deal of waste, tourist on expedition

leave behind their garbage, toilet papers, plastic bags, cups, wastage of food,

such practices degrade the environment. Physical impacts are caused not only

by tourism but by continuing tourist activities and long term change in local

economics and ecologies. Many types of physical or cultural indicators may be

generated by tourism development, however tourism is well planned. Developed

and managed it may also generate positive impacts.

Improvement that help tourism like better transportation and

communication, tree planting, restoration of historic sites, holly places, urban

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beautification and cleanliness, also improve the physical factors for the local

population. Tourism development can help to stimulate general community

improvement.

5.4.1 Physical Impact Indicators of Tourism Development

1. Overcrowding and congestion

2. Noise and air pollution

3. Quality of sewage and garbage disposal

4. Strain on public utility service and recreational facilities

5. Road conditions / ferry services

6. Need of separate place for parking

7. Availability of pure and adequate water supply

8. Development of basic infrastructure

5.4.2 Perception of Residents Response to Physical Impact of Tourism

Tourism is a basic element for the change of social attitude of the local

people. Physical aspects are the main attraction of tourists. For the assessment

of physical impact of tourism on the residents of Elephanta caves, Matheran,

Janjira fort and Pali. Impact of tourism is calculated in the table 5.7.

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PHYSICAL IMPACT OF TOURISM ON RESIDENTS OF ELEPHANTA CAVES,

MATHERAN, JANJIRA FORT AND PALI Sr.

No

Indicators Elephanta

Caves

Matheran Janjira Fort Pali

Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD Mean SD

1 Overcrowding

and congestion

2.10 0.64 2.02 0.76 1.7 0.92 2.1 0.66

2 Noise and air

pollution

-1.58 1.04 -2.10 0.75 -0.36 1.21 -1.7 0.99

3 Quality of sewage

and garbage

disposal

1.70 0.78 1.70 0.90 2.14 0.69 1.8 0.80

4 Strain on public

utility services

and recreational

facilities

2.08 0.69 2.06 0.73 2 0.69 2.1 0.69

5 Road conditions/

Ferry services

2.12 0.65 2.02 0.65 1.54 1.28 1.8 0.64

6 Need of separate

place for parking

2.10 0.75 1.92 0.77 -1.06 1.39 1.9 0.69

7 Available pure

and adequate

water supply

-2.14 0.85 -2.12 0.77 -0.04 1.52 -1.9 1.14

8 Development in

basic

infrastructure

0.50 1.50 0.64 1.61 -0.24 1.87 0.6 1.61

0.86 1.89 0.77 1.95 0.71 1.73 0.83 1.85

Source: Compiled by Author

Table 5.7 Physical Impact of Tourism on Residents of Elephanta Caves, Matheran, Janjira Fort and Pali

As shown in Table 5.7, it is clear idea regarding the residents attitude

towards the physical impact of tourism on the destination. Residents of

Elephanta caves feel that, the positive physical impact such as overcrowding

and congestion (+2.10), quality of sewage and garbage disposal (+1.70), strain

on public utility services and recreational facilities (+2.08), ferry wharf service

(+2.12), need for separate place for parking (+2.10) and development of basic

417

infrastrucure (+0.50). On the other hand negative physical impacts affect on

residents of the destination such as noise and air pollution (- 1.58) and

available pure and adeqaute water supply ( - 2.14).

Table 5.7 gives the idea about the perception of residents response to

physical impact of tourism on the destination. Residents of Matheran felt that,

the positive impact such as overcrowding and congestion (+2.02), quality of

sewage and garbage disposal (+1.70), strain on public utility services and

recreational facilities (+2.06), road condition (+2.02), need for separate place

for parking (+1.92) and development of basic infrastrucure (+1.50). On the

other hand negative physical impacts affect on residents of the destination such

as noise and air pollution (- 2.10) and available pure and adeqaute water

supply ( - 2.12).

Table 5.7 depict that the physiacl effects of tourism on residents of

Janjira fort, the positive impact helps to promote the tourism activity. Such

positive indicators are overcrowding and congestion (+1.7), quality of sewage

and garbage disposal (+2.14), strain on public utility services and recreational

facilities (+2.00), road condition (+1.54). On the other side tourist do not attract

or visit / revisit due to negative physical impacts such impacts are noise and air

pollution (- 0.36), need for separate place for parking (+1.06), available pure

and adeqaute water supply (- 0.04).and development of basic infrastrucure (-

0.24).

Table 5.7 shows that, about the attitude of physical effects of tourism

on Pali Residents felt that, the positive physical impact such as overcrowding

and congestion (+2.1), quality of sewage and garbage disposal (+1.8), strain on

public utility services and recreational facilities (+2.1), road condition (+ 1.8) ,

need for separate place for parking (+1.9) and development of basic

infrastrucure (+0.60). On the other hand negative physical impacts affect on

residents of the destination such as noise and air pollution (-1.7) and available

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pure and adeqaute water supply( - 1.9). This is a very famous and recently

developed tourist center, there physical impacts shows the positive effect and as

compared to other destinations it shows flow of tourist is much more during the

summer and winter season. The positive impacts are good indicator for tourism

development but this rate is slow.

PHYSICAL ATTITUDE INDEX MEAN AND PERCENTAGE OF RESPONDENTS

Sr.

No

Average Score

Percentage of Respondents

Elephanta

Caves

Matheran Janjra

Fort

Pali

1 +2.00 to +2.99 16.00 16.50 12.25 13.75

2 +1.00 to +1.99 37.75 33.50 29.00 37.00

3 +0.00 to +0.99 16.25 19.25 26.25 20.75

4 0.00 1.00 1.25 2.25 0.75

5 -0.00 to -0.99 12.00 8.75 13.50 9.25

6 -1.00 to -1.99 9.25 12.00 13.75 11.25

7 -2.00 to -2.99 7.75 8.75 3.00 7.25

Source: Compiled by Author

Table 5.8 Physical Attitude Index Mean and Percentage of Respondents

Table 5.8 depicts the clear cut idea about the respondentsagreement or

disagreement with the physical impacts of tourism on Elephanta caves,

Matheran, Janjira fort and Pali. For assessment of all destinations it should

easily understand with eight items of physical impacts.

For the Elephanta caves, about 37.75 per cent residents moderately

agreed with physical factors which range from +1.00 to +1.99. About 7.75 per

cent residents strongly disagree and only 1.00 per cent residents have noted no

response with physical impacts. For Matheran, about 33.5 per cent residents

moderately agree, about 12.00 per cent moderately disagree and only 1.25 per

cent residents no response towards this impacts. For Rajpuri village (Janjira

419

fort), about 29.00 per cent residents moderately agree, 12.25 per cent residents

strongly agree, 13.75 per cent residents moderately disagree and about 3.00 per

cent residents strongly agree with physical items. Only 2.25 per cent residents

provided no response towards the physical indicators. Lastly, for Pali village

residents, about 37.00 per cent residents moderately agree, about 13.75 per cent

residents strongly agree, about 11.75 per cent residents moderately disagree and

about 7.25 per cent residents of Pali strongly disagree with physical indicators.

Only 0.75 per cent residents provided no response for positive and negative

physical items.

Mostly residents of Elephanta caves, Matheran, Janjira fort and Pali has

moderately agree with physical impacts of tourism. That means there is no high

rate of physical impacts on residents of selected case studies. Therefore physical

impacts are the good indication of development of tourism in the Raigad

district.

RESIDENTS ATTITUDE INDEX MEAN

Destination Index Mean S.D. /

Elephanta Caves +0.86 1.89

Matheran +0.77 1.95

Janjira Fort +0.71 1.73

Pali +0.83 1.85

+ indicates the positive impact

- indicates the negligible mpacts

Higher the values larger the effects

Source: Compiled by Author

Table 5.9 Residents Attitude Index Mean

As shown in table 5.9 residents attitude index mean for Elephanta caves

is + 0.86 , for Matheran + 0.77, for Janjira fort + 0.71 and for Pali + 0.83. That

420

means there is a less effects of tourism of all tourist centers and they agree with

this effect of tourism on the physical environment. The positive physical

indicators are good signs for the development of tourism in the Raigad district.

421

R E F E R E N C E S

1. Cooper, C et.al (1999), Tourism Principles and Practices, Addison Wesley

Longman Publishing, New York, p-124-182.

2. Smith, M. K. and Robinson, M. (Eds), (1998), Cultural Tourism in a

Changing World: Politics, Partcipation, and (re) presentation United

Kingdom. Channel View Publications Ltd.

3. Mason, P. (2003), Tourism Impacts, Planning and Management. Jordan

Hill, Oxford

4. Likert, R. C. (1932), A Technique for the Measurement of Attitude, Archives

of Psychology.

5. Potdar, M. A. (2003), Tourism Development in South Konkan, Unpublished

Doctoral Thesis, Shivaji University, Kolhapur.

6. Fariborz Aref, (2010), Residents Attitudes Towards Tourism Impacts: A

case Study of Shiraz, Iran. Tourism Analysis, Vol. 15, e-journal.