The Deputy Commissioner of Leh, Santosh Sukhadeve, conducted a thorough review of the preparedness for the Chadar Trek 2024 on January 12, giving the iconic trek the official go-ahead.

Scheduled to commence on January 13, the Chadar Trek has received recommendations to limit commercial vehicles at the checkpoint, permitting only medical teams, rescue personnel, and authorized officials.

All Ladakh Tour Operators Association (ALTOA) and Union Territory Disaster Response Force (UTDRF) shared updates from their recce conducted on January 11. Following their assessment, both organizations recommended commencing the Chadar Trek from January 13 and restricting commercial vehicles at the checkpoint, allowing only medical, rescue teams, and officials.

DC Leh instructed ALTOA and UTDRF to promptly submit a joint recce written report to the Deputy Commissioner's Office. Additionally, he directed the Tourism Department and Wildlife Department to start the installation of tents and toilets immediately.

ALTOA informed that soon they will organise operators meeting to manage and monitor the tourist influx for Chadar Trek 2024. DC Leh emphasised the need to ensure proper facilities at all camps, including medical services, toilets, and heating arrangements among others.

The Ladakh Mountain Guides Association (LMGA) proposed the provision of satellite phones for emergency communication, receiving a positive response from the authorities. In a commitment to enhancing safety measures, ALTOA members announced their intention to conduct medical examinations, covering insurance, acclimatization, and fitness certifications. LMGA and UTDRF pledged to establish rescue operation camps to ensure the safety of trekkers.

The Deputy Commissioner urged all concerned departments to work cohesively to make the trek a success while prioritizing the safety and well-being of participants.

The meeting witnessed the presence of Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), Leh; Additional District Development Officer, Leh; DSP, UTDRF; Chief Medical Officer, Leh; Assistant Director of Tourism, Leh; a representative from the Wildlife Department; President, ALTOA; President, LMGA, and other stakeholders.