12 bikers, SUV driver fined for off-roading in Ladakh's protected wildlife zones
Authorities in Ladakh have fined 12 bikers and the owner of an SUV for illegally driving through protected wildlife areas, as the administration steps up
Authorities in Ladakh have fined 12 bikers and the owner of an SUV for illegally driving through protected wildlife areas, as the administration steps up action against off-roading in ecologically sensitive zones. Lt Governor VK Saxena also urged tourists to enjoy the Union territory responsibly and help preserve its fragile ecology and wildlife. Officials said the action is part of a stricter enforcement drive to curb damage to protected landscapes. The administration has said it will continue to promote tourism, but will act firmly against those who endanger Ladakh's natural heritage. Read Full Story According to an official spokesman, 12 bikers were fined Rs 10,000 each for illegally entering protected ecologically sensitive areas near Lake Moriri.
In a separate case, a tourist driving an SUV near Pangong Lake was fined Rs 50,000 for violating the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Over the last few years, Ladakh has become one of the country's most popular destinations for motorcycle enthusiasts. However, with the rise in tourism, authorities have also seen an increase in tourists entering protected wildlife areas and driving through fragile wetlands, lake shores and sensitive habitats, causing damage to the region's ecosystem and disturbing wildlife. The Lt Governor said Ladakh's mountains, lakes, rivers and wildlife were among its greatest treasures and belonged not only to its people but to the entire nation.
"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," Lt Governor VK Saxena said. Officials said the strict enforcement follows the Lt Governor's directions to curb illegal off-roading and protect Ladakh's ecologically fragile landscapes. The spokesman said the initiative has gained momentum after the recent deployment of the Ladakh Environment Protection Force, made up of 100 e servicemen authorised to monitor sensitive areas and issue on-the-spot challans.
Both violations were detected through patrolling by wildlife department personnel and wildlife informers, the official added, underlining the administration's stronger surveillance across protected landscapes. Overall, the action marks a tougher approach by the Ladakh administration as it seeks to balance tourism with the protection of its wildlife areas and fragile environment. Ends
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