Wildlife Department of Ladakh Imposes Heavy Penalty on Off-Roading Violators
In a significant move, the Wildlife Department of Ladakh has imposed a hefty penalty on four vehicles for illegal off-roading in Pangong Lake and other protected wildlife areas. The offending vehicle owners from Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh were fined Rs 50,000 each for violating the Wildlife Protection Act. This strict action reaffirms the Administration's commitment to safeguarding Ladakh's delicate ecosystem and endangered wildlife.
The penalty was imposed after the vehicles were found driving illegally into Pangong Lake and other protected wildlife zones in Changthang and Nubra. The total penalty amounting to Rs 2 lakh was imposed on the errant drivers. The vehicles were impounded by officials and released only after the penalty was paid. This marks the first time such a stringent penalty has been imposed on miscreants engaging in illegal off-roading in the ecologically fragile Ladakh region.
The violations occurred at four separate locations under the Leh Wildlife Division—Merak and Lukung along Pangong Lake, Nurboo La in Hanle, and Sumur in Nubra Valley. Wildlife staff detected instances of off-road driving and stunts that caused damage to critical wildlife habitat and polluted the lake. The drivers were found guilty under the Wildlife Protection Act, and their vehicles were seized.
The Wildlife Department took action based on reports of illegal off-roading captured on social media. The offenders were identified and penalized for their actions. Ladakh Lt Governor V K Saxena emphasized the importance of responsible tourism and urged visitors to be environmentally conscious. Tourists, adventure enthusiasts, and vehicle owners were advised not to venture into protected wildlife habitats to avoid disturbing endangered species and damaging fragile ecosystems. It is crucial to respect the sanctity of tourist places and preserve the natural beauty of Ladakh.
In conclusion, the imposition of a hefty penalty on errant tourists for illegal off-roading in Ladakh's protected wildlife areas underscores the region's commitment to conservation and environmental protection. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy Ladakh's beauty responsibly and contribute to the preservation of its unique ecosystem.