What was once a dumping ground for marble slurry in Rajasthan’s Kishangarh has today become one of the region’s most photographed tourist spots. Popularly called “Snow Yard” or “Mini Switzerland,” the site attracts tourists, influencers, vloggers and pre wedding shoots because of its surreal white landscape and blue water pools. But behind the beauty lies a growing concern over marble dust and its possible impact on health.
Located in Kishangarh, one of Asia’s largest marble processing hubs, the site was originally created as a dumping yard for marble slurry waste generated by nearby factories. Over time, filmmakers and photographers began using the location for shoots, transforming it into a social media attraction.
“It looks beautiful from outside, but this is actually pollution,” said 26 year old vlogger Krati Parashar during a visit to the site. “The small particles of marble dust go inside our body through breathing and can cause breathing and skin problems. People come here for reels and photos, but they should also know the harmful side.”
Several visitors interviewed at the site admitted they were unaware of the risks before arriving.
“I didn’t think it could be harmful because the views are so good,” said Shaan Abbas, who had come for a photo shoot. “For a short visit it may be okay, but spending a lot of time here can be dangerous.”
Others described eye irritation caused by the dust.
“The dust is harmful for the eyes. People should wear glasses,” said visitor Amit, while another tourist, Nashra Ansari, called the place “beautiful but harmful.”
Despite this, the attraction continues to grow in popularity due to Instagram reels, Bollywood shoots and tourism promotions.
The Kishangarh Marble Association says efforts are being made to manage the site. Sampat Sharma, a member of the association, said the dumping yard accidentally became famous after films were shot there.
“We developed roads, planted thousands of trees and sprinkle water to control the dust,” Sharma said. “There are guards and warning notices for visitors.”
However, many visitors said they did not notice any health warning signs specifically related to marble dust exposure.
Health experts have long warned that fine marble and stone dust particles can affect the respiratory system when inhaled regularly. While marble dust is different from silica dust linked to silicosis, prolonged exposure to airborne particulate matter can still irritate the lungs, eyes and skin.
Political scientist and author Laxmikanth also spoke about the wider environmental and health concerns linked to marble waste and dust pollution in Rajasthan’s marble belts. He said uncontrolled marble slurry and airborne dust can affect local air quality and may create respiratory discomfort, especially for workers and people living near dumping sites for long periods.
Today, the Snow Yard stands as a strange contradiction, a polluted industrial waste site turned into a dreamlike tourist attraction. Visitors continue to arrive for photographs, reels and pre wedding shoots, even as concerns over health and environmental safety remain largely in the background.
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