The Ladakh administration has deployed 100 ex-servicemen as part of the newly formed Environment Protection Force to address the growing menace of illegal off-roading, which poses a serious threat to wildlife and damages the region's fragile high-altitude ecosystem. The induction ceremony took place in Leh on Saturday, where the ex-servicemen took a pledge to safeguard the environment.
Composition and Training of the Force
The force consists of retired personnel from the Indian Army, including the Ladakh Scouts, who are well-acclimatized to the harsh terrain and climatic conditions. They have undergone specialized training in environmental law enforcement, wildlife protection, and sustainable tourism practices. The ex-servicemen will patrol sensitive areas, monitor vehicular movement, and report violations to the authorities.
Impact on Wildlife and Ecosystem
Illegal off-roading has been identified as a major threat to Ladakh's unique biodiversity, including species such as the snow leopard, Tibetan wild ass, and black-necked crane. The indiscriminate driving over fragile vegetation and soil causes irreversible damage to the permafrost and disrupts wildlife habitats. According to a recent study by the Wildlife Institute of India, off-road vehicle tracks have increased by 40% in protected areas over the past five years, leading to soil erosion and loss of grazing grounds.
Government and Community Response
Ladakh's Chief Executive Councillor, Tashi Gyalson, stated, "The induction of these ex-servicemen marks a significant step in our commitment to preserve Ladakh's pristine environment. They bring discipline and a sense of duty that is essential for enforcing environmental regulations." The force will work in coordination with the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council, the Forest Department, and local communities to promote responsible tourism.
Broader Conservation Efforts
This initiative is part of a larger environmental protection strategy that includes stricter penalties for violators, awareness campaigns, and the development of eco-friendly tourism infrastructure. The administration has also launched a mobile app for tourists to report illegal activities and access information about designated off-roading zones. The force will initially operate in the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, Hemis National Park, and the Nubra Valley, which are particularly vulnerable to off-road damage.
