Leh, April 22, 2026: Chief Secretary, Union Territory of Ladakh, Shri Ashish Kundra, today chaired a meeting to deliberate on issues raised by various transport associations of Leh, with a focus 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 Transport Federation Cooperative, who highlighted concerns related to membership renewal, cooperative functioning, and operational challenges. A key issue raised pertained to the renewal of membership in taxi cooperative societies and the associated timelines.
During the deliberations, the Chief Secretary expressed concern over the practice of setting up checkpoints and junction controls by certain unions, stating that such measures adversely affect tourists and create inconvenience, particularly in a region like Ladakh where tourism forms the backbone of the economy. He emphasized that enforcement of law and order is the responsibility of the police, and questioned the necessity of such parallel arrangements when law enforcement agencies are already deployed on roads round-the-clock.
The representatives of the transport associations explained that the existing token system is aimed at ensuring 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 within the framework of law and without causing inconvenience to visitors or interfering with official duties. He clearly instructed that no unauthorized checkpoints or junctions should be established on roads, and any legal matters must be handled in coordination with the 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 systems, and compliance with provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. The need for uniformity in regulations and better coordination among stakeholders was emphasized.
In order to address the concerns comprehensively, the Chief Secretary directed that a separate meeting to be convened with the All Ladakh Tour Operators Association (ALTOA), transport unions, and police authorities to ensure clarity, uniformity, and a coordinated approach in resolving all 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 various transport associations, and other concerned officers.
