The Ladakh administration has deployed 100 ex-servicemen in a newly formed Environment Protection Force (EPF) to safeguard the region's fragile ecology, officials confirmed on Saturday. This initiative aims to combat rising waste, glacier melt, and biodiversity loss in the high-altitude union territory.
Deployment and Roles
The EPF personnel, drawn from retired army, air force, and navy personnel, will be stationed across key tourist spots, villages, and sensitive ecological zones. Each member has undergone a two-week training program on waste segregation, glacier monitoring, and eco-friendly patrolling. The force will operate under the Ladakh Ecological Development Authority (LEDA).
According to a senior LEDA official, the EPF will focus on enforcing the ban on single-use plastics, managing solid waste, and preventing illegal mining. They will also assist in collecting data on glacial retreat and wildlife sightings for research purposes.
Ecological Challenges
Ladakh's unique environment, home to snow leopards, Tibetan wild ass, and numerous bird species, faces threats from increasing tourism and climate change. The region's glaciers have been retreating at an alarming rate, with studies showing a 13% reduction in glacier mass over the past two decades. Unsustainable waste disposal has led to contamination of water sources, affecting both wildlife and local communities.
“The fragile ecology of Ladakh cannot withstand unchecked human activity. This force will act as a deterrent and ensure sustainable practices,” said Tashi Gyalson, Chairman of the Ladakh Hill Council. He emphasized that the EPF would work closely with local communities and tourism operators.
Operational Plan
The EPF will operate in three shifts daily, covering high-traffic areas like Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, and Nubra Valley. Each team includes a designated medical officer and a wildlife expert. The force will also run awareness campaigns for tourists and locals, distributing eco-friendly alternatives to plastic.
In the first month, the EPF has already collected over 2 tonnes of non-biodegradable waste from Pangong Tso alone. They have also reported 15 instances of illegal waste dumping to local authorities. The administration plans to expand the force to 500 personnel by next year, pending budgetary approval.
Reactions and Future
Environmentalists have welcomed the move. “This is a commendable step. Deploying ex-servicemen brings discipline and experience to environmental protection,” said Dr. Sonam Wangchuk, a noted ecologist. However, some local residents expressed concerns about the force's powers and potential harassment. The administration clarified that the EPF has no arrest powers and will only report violations to civil authorities.
The central government has allocated ₹10 crore for the EPF's first year, covering salaries, equipment, and vehicles. The force will also use GPS trackers and drones for surveillance. Ladakh's unique ecology now has a dedicated guardian in the form of these 100 ex-servicemen.
