Chief Secretary of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, chaired a meeting on April 22 to deliberate on issues raised by various transport associations in Leh, focusing on ensuring smooth operations, maintaining law and order, and safeguarding the interests of the tourism sector.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the Mazda Union, Biker Union, Tempo Union 207, Taxi Operators Union, and the Transport Federation Cooperative. They highlighted concerns related to membership renewal, cooperative functioning, and operational challenges. A key issue discussed was the renewal process and timelines for membership in taxi cooperative societies.

During the deliberations, the Chief Secretary expressed concern over the practice of setting up checkpoints and junction controls by certain unions. He noted that such measures inconvenience tourists and negatively impact their experience, particularly in a region like Ladakh where tourism is a key economic driver. He emphasized that maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the police and questioned the need for parallel arrangements when law enforcement agencies are already deployed round-the-clock.

Representatives of the transport associations explained that the existing token system is intended to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for drivers by maintaining an orderly queue for tourist bookings.

While acknowledging the intent, the Chief Secretary directed that such systems must operate strictly within the legal framework and should not inconvenience visitors or interfere with official duties. He instructed that no unauthorized checkpoints or junctions be set up on roads and that all legal matters be handled in coordination with police authorities.

The meeting also discussed issues related to the Biker Association, including the operation of vehicles with different number plates across regions of Ladakh, permit requirements, and compliance with provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. The need for regulatory uniformity and improved coordination among stakeholders was emphasized.

To address the concerns comprehensively, the Chief Secretary directed that a separate meeting be convened with the All Ladakh Tour Operators Association, transport unions, and police authorities to ensure clarity, uniformity, and a coordinated approach to resolving pending issues.

The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the Director General of Police, Leh; Secretary, Transport; Senior Superintendent of Police, Leh; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Leh; Under Secretary, Transport; representatives of transport associations; and other concerned officers.