Leh, Jul 15: Ladakh authories have have fined thirteen tourists for illegal off-roading and entering protected wildlife areas in seperate incidents in the Moriri and Pangong Lake area in the Union Territory.
The move follows increasing concerns about tourists using motorcycles and four-wheelers in ecologically sensitive wetlands, lake shores and wildlife habitats, resulting in damage to Ladakh's fragile ecosystem and disruption of native wildlife.
Elaborating on the action, officials said 12 bikers were fined ₹10,000 each after they illegally ventured into protected zones near Tso Moriri Lake, while the owner of a sports utility vehicle (SUV) was penalised ₹50,000 for driving in a protected area near Pangong Lake in violation of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Ladakh administration said the violations were detected during routine patrols conducted by personnel of the Wildlife Department with assistance from wildlife informers as part of enhanced surveillance across protected landscapes.
The enforcement drive follows directions from Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena to curb illegal off-roading and strengthen protection of Ladakh's environmentally sensitive regions, which have witnessed a sharp increase in tourist arrivals over the past few years.
In a statement, the Lieutenant Governor said Ladakh's mountains, lakes, rivers and wildlife are among its greatest natural treasures and urged visitors to enjoy the Union Territory responsibly.
"We wholeheartedly welcome every visitor who comes to experience the unparalleled beauty, culture and hospitality of Ladakh. I urge all tourists to enjoy our breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife responsibly and refrain from any activity that harms our fragile ecology or disturbs protected habitats. The administration will continue to promote tourism, but equally, we shall enforce the law firmly against those who endanger Ladakh's priceless natural heritage," he said.
Officials said the enforcement campaign has gathered momentum following the recent deployment of the Ladakh Environment Protection Force (EPF), comprising 100 ex-servicemen authorised to monitor ecologically sensitive areas and issue on-the-spot challans against violators.
Authorities have appealed to tourists, particularly adventure riders and off-road enthusiasts, to respect designated routes and avoid entering protected wildlife areas, warning that violations would invite strict legal action. [KNT]
