Leh, April 04: In a proactive move to ensure a smooth and well-regulated tourist season, the Administrative Secretary of the Transport Department, Union Territory of Ladakh, Bhupesh Chaudhary, Friday ordered a series of steps to ensure proper check on the traffic violations so that visitors experience hassle free travel.
Chaudhary chaired a high-level review meeting that focused on transport preparedness, enforcement strategies and administrative reforms, aiming to enhance mobility, improve the visitor experience, and boost departmental efficiency across Ladakh. During the session, Chaudhary conducted a thorough review of enforcement operations, instructing the Assistant Regional Transport Officers (ARTOs) of Leh and Kargil to implement a robust daily reporting system. “These reports will provide real-time data on violations, corrective actions and emerging trends, ensuring strict accountability and enabling swift decision-making,” Chaudhary said.
A key concern discussed was the growing challenge of traffic congestion, illegal parking, and obstruction of vehicle movement on key routes—issues that intensify with the seasonal influx of tourists. Chaudhary directed immediate, on-the-ground action to identify and decongest critical junctions, regulate parking spaces, and streamline vehicle movement in popular tourist zones. He stressed the need for dedicated traffic personnel in high-density areas, improved signage, and real-time coordination with law enforcement agencies and local bodies.
The Secretary also addressed the unauthorised establishment of check-posts by private unions or individuals, a concern particularly reported in areas such as Chilling. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, he categorically stated that no group or individual is permitted to set up any form of check-post without valid authorisation. Any attempt to stop or harass tourists or drivers in possession of valid permits will be dealt with firmly, with immediate administrative action. Recognising that taxi and tourism drivers are often the first point of contact for visitors, Shri Chaudhary directed the launch of a comprehensive sensitisation and training programme. This initiative will promote professional and courteous behaviour while educating drivers on tourism protocols, cultural expectations, and emergency response measures, ensuring they contribute positively to the visitor experience.
Additionally, the Secretary reviewed the transport department’s permit issuance system, instructing officials to introduce procedural improvements for faster, more transparent processing while reducing bottlenecks. To further enhance transparency and protect tourists from overcharging, he directed that updated taxi fare charts be finalised in consultation with stakeholders and widely disseminated across print, digital, and public spaces, including taxi stands and tourist reception centres. Another critical area of focus was the modernisation of transport records. Shri Chaudhary highlighted concerns over duplicate vehicle entries and outdated records of scrapped vehicles in the VAHAN database. He instructed ARTOs to conduct a thorough audit and data correction exercise.
Furthermore, he urged the expedited implementation of High-Security Registration Plates (HSRP) across the region to enhance vehicle traceability and road safety. Ongoing projects under the Special Development Package (SDP) were also reviewed, with the Secretary stressing the importance of timely execution and close monitoring. He directed officials to submit weekly progress reports and promptly resolve administrative bottlenecks to ensure public benefits are delivered as scheduled.
The meeting was attended by the Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Ladakh, ARTOs of Leh and Kargil, Deputy Superintendents of Police (Traffic) from both districts, the Under Secretary to the Secretary of Transport, and other senior departmental officials. The discussions reiterated UT administration’s commitment to proactive governance to ensure a well-managed, welcoming and efficient tourist experience in Ladakh.
