Leh, July 08: In a bid to safeguard Ladakh’s natural beauty amidst growing tourist footfall, Jigmat Lundup, Proprietor at Himalaya Aperture Travel, has issued a passionate plea for sustainable trekking practices. Speaking from the heart of Zalung Karpo, Lundup emphasized the urgent need for travelers to adopt a ‘leave no trace’ ethos.
“Our small initiative to collect leftover trash left by other travel companies aims to preserve the pristine beauty of Zalung Karpo and other trekking routes,” Lundup stated. “As tourism evolves, the Markha Valley trek has changed drastically with new roads. Now, Zalung Karpo stands as one of the last untouched areas where we earn our livelihood during the short tourist season.”
Expressing concern over the environmental impact of conventional waste management practices, Lundup discouraged the installation of trash bins at campsites. “While trash bins seem convenient, they often lead to unintended littering,” he explained. “Overflowing bins at the season’s start are a grim reminder of the environmental harm we risk. Our focus should be on carrying reusable bags, minimizing packaging, and ensuring all waste returns with us.”
In a recent statement, Lundup emphasized the critical need to preserve the natural splendor of Ladakh’s trekking routes amidst increasing environmental concerns. He highlighted the impact of the new road on the Markha Valley trek, noting that it is no longer the pristine experience it once was. With the Zalung Karpo trek remaining one of the few remaining unspoiled areas, Lundup stressed the importance of maintaining its beauty for the benefit of local communities and future generations.
“Preserving the pristine beauty of the Zalung Karpo trek is crucial for our livelihood,” Lundup said. “This is one of the few remaining wild and beautiful areas where we can earn our bread and butter during the short tourist season. With fewer tourists coming to trek, it is essential for us locals to preserve and keep clean the trekking routes that remain untouched by motorable roads and other developmental activities.”
Lundup expressed his concern over the practice of placing trash bins at campsites, which he believes can inadvertently encourage littering. He shared observations from the start of the trekking season, noting that some trash bins were already overflowing, and the surrounding bushes were littered with garbage.
“Creating trash bins at campsites might seem like a good idea, but it often leads to more problems than solutions,” Lundup explained. “When people see a trash bin, they might think it’s acceptable to leave their trash behind, which then harms the environment when these bins are left uncollected or overflow.”
He also extended special thanks to his staff and horseman Ajang Nawang Stanzin from Hangkar, who took the initiative to clean up and transport garbage back for proper disposal.
“We should all strive to keep Zalung Karpo and other trekking routes in Ladakh clean and beautiful,” Lundup added. “Together, we can make a difference and ensure that these incredible places remain as breathtaking as ever for future generations.”
