Indians will soon be able to cruise their 4x4s or launch biking blitz through some forbidden land in the strategic Chang Chenmo sector close to patrolling points north of Pangong lake in eastern Ladakh, even as the border standoff with China is into its fourth year now.
"In the second phase, tourists will be allowed to travel up to Hot Springs, further up from Tsogtsalu, and the memorial built in honour of 10 CRPF jawans killed on October 21, 1959, when their patrol was attacked by the Chinese," the official said.
Officials said the administration has been ready with plans for toilets, selfie points and medical centres in January. “Border Roads Organsiation has been roped in for construction with district funding. Police is also ready to set up check posts,” a senior official said.
The Army has its well-meaning reasons. “The civil administration needs to give due consideration to non-availability of any civil infrastructure and support system while allowing tourists into these areas,” the Army HQ said.
This time, however, clearance came quickly after two meetings the local Army brass had with top administration officials in December 2022. Sources said the administration was for opening up the areas from April but a change of guard at the local formation slowed down the process.