Leh, Jan 12: Deputy Commissioner, Leh, Santosh Sukhadeve, chaired a review meeting at the mini conference Hall to discuss the readiness for the Chadar Trek 2024 on January 12.

During the meeting, All Ladakh Tour Operators Association (ALTOA) and Union Territory Disaster Response Force (UTDRF) shared updates from their recce conducted on January 11. They informed that Chadar Trek can be started from tomorrow onwards i.e. January 13, and they recommended 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.

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ALTOA informed that soon they will organise an operator meeting to manage and monitor the tourist influx for Chadar Trek 2024.

DC Leh, Santosh Sukhadeve, emphasized the need for ensuring proper facilities at all camps, including medical services, toilets, and heating arrangements among others.

Ladakh Mountain Guides Association (LMGA) also requested the provision of satellite phones for emergency communication, which received a positive nod from the authorities.

In a bid to enhance safety measures, ALTOA members informed that they would conduct medical examinations, covering aspects such as insurance, acclimatization, and fitness certifications. Furthermore, the Ladakh Mountain Guides Association (LMGA) and UTDRF committed to establishing rescue operation camps to ensure the safety of trekkers.

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 was attended Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), Leh; Additional District Developmnent Officer, Leh; DSP, UTDRF, Chief Medical Officer, Leh; Assistant Director of Tourism, Leh, representative from wildlife Department; President, ALTOA, President LMGA, and other concerned stakeholders.