Now Reading: Ladakh Approves India’s First High-Altitude Wildlife Safari
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Ladakh Approves India’s First High-Altitude Wildlife Safari
Ladakh Approves India’s First High-Altitude Wildlife Safari
Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved guided jeep safaris and birdwatching trails under a new eco-tourism initiative. The plan covers Hemis National Park, Changthang and Karakoram wildlife sanctuaries, along with…
The Story in Brief
Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved guided jeep safaris and birdwatching trails under a new eco-tourism initiative. The plan covers Hemis National Park, Changthang and Karakoram wildlife sanctuaries, along with wildlife-rich areas in Nubra, Zanskar, Sham, Kargil and Drass. Hindustan Times reports that specially designed vehicles, trained local drivers and guides will be used to reduce illegal off-roading and disturbance to wildlife.
The initiative will train 20 local youths in birdwatching and establish 10 birdwatching hides. Authorities also plan 300 waste bins across 40 villages, wildlife clubs in 50 government schools and a plastic-free tourism campaign. Officials say Ladakh has 477 of India’s estimated 718 snow leopards. Preparations are to be completed before the coming winter sighting season.
The Indian Opinion
The claim that more tourism automatically means conservation is as weak as the claim that every safari will damage Ladakh. Regulated vehicles, local guides and waste controls could reduce harm, but the plan’s success depends on enforcement in remote areas and fair local earnings. The practical test is whether illegal off-roading falls and whether the promised preparations are complete before winter.
Source: hindustantimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
