Ladakh’s administration fines four tourists a total of ₹2 lakh for illegal off-roading in protected wildlife areas, including locations around Pangong Lake. According to reports, each vehicle owner is fined ₹50,000 under India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act. Authorities also impound the vehicles involved in the violations. The cases include off-roading in and around lakes and streams, as well as within or near wildlife sanctuaries. One tourist is reported to have been caught chasing a Tibetan gazelle in a sanctuary, an incident cited as particularly serious due to the involvement of endangered wildlife. The administration frames the action as a first major round of strict enforcement against illegal driving practices in ecologically sensitive zones, and it indicates that similar penalties and vehicle seizures may continue for future violations. The move is intended to protect Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem and wildlife by discouraging activities that damage natural habitats or disturb protected species.