Why 12 Bikers Were Fined INR 1.2 Lakh Near Tso Moriri in Ladakh

Twelve bikers on a Ladakh adventure trip have been fined INR 1.2 lakh by the Union Territory administration for allegedly riding off designated routes near Tso Moriri, one of the region’s most ecologically sensitive wetlands. The motorcyclists, linked to Gurugram-based travel company WanderOn Experiences Pvt Ltd, were found riding inside the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary, according to wildlife officials.

Officials said the bikers were spotted on July 4 riding off-road near the high-altitude lake, violating provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Each motorcycle was fined INR 10,000, bringing the total penalty to INR 1.2 lakh. Toyota Fortuner Stuck on Vagator Beach: Tourists Drive SUV Into Sea in Goa, Vehicle Gets Stuck in Sand (Watch Video).

Bikers Penalised For Entering Protected Wetland Area

The Ladakh administration imposed the fine after officials determined that the group had entered an ecologically fragile wetland where vehicle movement outside designated roads can harm the landscape and disturb wildlife.

This marks the first time an organised motorcycle group has been penalised as part of Ladakh’s ongoing crackdown on illegal off-roading activities in protected wildlife areas. Jet Car in Mumbai: Rolls Royce-Shaped 'Car in the Sea' Draws Huge Crowd As Watercraft Cruises Through Arabian Sea at Juhu Beach (Watch Videos).

Days before this action, on June 30, officials intercepted a Mahindra XUV 3XO during routine patrolling near Man Village along Pangong Lake. The SUV was allegedly being driven off-road inside the Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary.

The vehicle was seized under the Wildlife (Protection) Act and later released after its owner, a resident of Meerut, paid a INR 50,000 penalty.

Growing Tourism Pressure On Ladakh’s Fragile Ecosystem

Adventure tourism has grown significantly in Ladakh in recent years, making the region a popular destination for bikers and SUV enthusiasts. However, officials have raised concerns over visitors leaving designated routes and driving through wetlands, lake shores and wildlife habitats.

Authorities said such activities can cause long-term damage to the cold desert ecosystem, where recovery from environmental disturbance can take years.

The Changthang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several rare Himalayan species, including the Tibetan wild ass (kiang), black-necked crane, Tibetan gazelle and the snow leopard. Wildlife experts have warned that off-roading in these habitats can disturb breeding grounds and leave permanent marks on fragile terrain.

Ladakh Administration Urges Tourists To Travel Responsibly

Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena said Ladakh’s mountains, rivers, lakes and wildlife were among its greatest treasures and urged visitors to enjoy the region responsibly.

"We wholeheartedly welcome every visitor who comes to experience the unparalleled beauty, culture and hospitality of Ladakh. I urge all tourists to enjoy our breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife responsibly and refrain from any activity that harms our fragile ecology or disturbs protected habitats. The Administration will continue to promote tourism, but equally, we shall enforce the law firmly against those who endanger Ladakh's priceless natural heritage," he said.

The administration has indicated that while tourism development will continue, stricter enforcement will remain in place to prevent damage to Ladakh’s protected landscapes and wildlife zones.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 14, 2026 10:12 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).