The Minister for Cooperatives and Ladakh Affairs, Chhering Dorje, along with the Chief Executive Councilor (CEC), LAHDC, Leh, Dr. Sonam Dawa, Friday visited Fobrang, Yurgo, Maan, Merak and Spangmik villages of Leh to review the status of removal of encroachments along the Pangong Lake passing through these villages.Dorjay met various public delegations who called on him during the visit and sought their cooperation in finding an amicable resolution to the issue in the wake of GoI declaration of the Lake as a Cold Desert Sanctuary and the High Court directions calling for removal of all structures alongside the Lake.During his interactions with the concerned, the Minister reiterated that a comprehensive proposal has been formulated for allotment of land to the affected for establishing their businesses at a new location. He said the proposal is in keeping with ensuring sustainable tourism in the area.Dorje emphasized the importance of the Lake for the district and urged them to follow the related Supreme Court regulations and shift their business establishments to the new location.
The Minister assured the locals of full support of the government for upgradation of roads and opening of new tourist destinations and trekking routes in the area.Speaking on the occasion, the CEC clarified that LAHDC has formulated such a land distribution plan which ensures equal commercial benefits to all of the concerned groups.To boost tourism in the area, he said the Martsemik Camping Resort, with potential for becoming a major tourist attraction, will be opened in due course. He also said that the Union Home Ministry has agreed to open the Chushul-Tsaga-la-Larikarpo Demjok-Hanley Road for tourists to the district, adding the road will provide an added avenue for further promotion of tourism in the area in future.EC Tourism, Councilor Tangtse, Councilor Chushul, Conservator of Forests, SDM Durbuk and AD Tourism also accompanied the Minister during the visit.