Diplomat Correspondent
Kargil, DD, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Kargil, Imtiaz Kacho, today flagged off a bicycle ride from the historic Iqbal Bridge to Batalik via Chiktan, organized by the Ladakh Educational Development Society (LEDS) to promote environmental awareness, eco-tourism and sustainable practices among youth.
Besides the ADC, Range Officer, Forest Department, Wilayat Ali was also present on the occasion to support the cause.
While addressing the media, Kacho appreciated the role of LEDS, especially its head Imtiyaz Nazrana for conceptualising and organising such a meaningful event. He also lauded the efforts of the team members Idrees and Rehan. “The initiative of starting the ride from the heritage site of Iqbal Bridge and covering remote villages such as Chiktan and Batalik is commendable and indeed unique,” he stated.
The cyclists are expected to reach Bartchey today and will proceed towards Batalik via Chiktan. The students will explore local homestays and will interact with village communities to promote eco-tourism and environmental protection.
ADC Kacho expressed admiration for the students’ enthusiasm and commitment to environmental causes. “It is inspiring to see our youth thinking about sustainability and climate action,” he said. He assured the full support of the district administration for such youth-led initiatives.
He further appealed to the public to extend cooperation towards environmental protection by practicing home-based plantation, avoiding single-use plastics and promoting reuse. “If plastic must be used, let us creatively repurpose it into art instead of throwing it into rivers and drains,” he urged.DD