Ladakh Cracks Down On Illegal Off-Roading, Fines 12 Bikers ₹1.20 Lakh In Protected Wildlife Zones

Leh, July 14: The Ladakh Administration has imposed a penalty of ₹1.20 lakh on 12 bikers for illegally off-roading in ecologically sensitive areas near Tso Moriri Lake, located within the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary. Each biker was fined ₹10,000 for violating provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 after wildlife officials found the group riding motorcycles through protected areas on July 4. The riders were associated with a Gurugram-based tour operator, Wanderon Experiences Pvt Ltd. In another action, an SUV owner was fined ₹50,000 for illegally driving off-road near Pangong Lake. Wildlife officials intercepted the vehicle during routine patrolling near Man Village on June 30 and seized it under the Wildlife Protection Act. The vehicle was released after payment of the penalty. Authorities said the action comes amid growing concerns over tourists entering fragile wetlands, lake shores and wildlife habitats, causing damage to Ladakh’s sensitive ecosystem. Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena urged visitors to enjoy the region responsibly and avoid activities that harm its natural heritage. The crackdown follows directions to curb illegal off-roading, with the newly deployed Ladakh Environment Protection Force (EPF), comprising 100 ex-servicemen, assisting in monitoring sensitive areas and issuing penalties against violators.