Sonam Wangchuk Leads March to Protect Himalayas and Restore Democracy in Ladakh

Mandi: Renowned environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk, accompanied by over 100 activists, has embarked on a mission to safeguard the fragile ecology of the Himalayas and restore democracy in Ladakh.

The march, which started in Leh, reached Mandi on Saturday after passing through Kullu and Pandoh. The movement aims to raise awareness about the exploitation of mountain regions and the pressing need to involve local communities in development processes.

Warm Reception in Mandi

At the Himachal Darshan Photo Gallery in Bindrabani, just before Mandi, Wangchuk and his team received a warm welcome from various organizations. Among them were Himachal Gyan Vigyan Samiti, the Land Acquisition Forum, Congress Seva Dal, women’s groups, and students and professors from Mandi Degree College. Addressing the crowd, Wangchuk explained that the march began on September 1 in Ladakh and will culminate in Delhi on October 2.

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“Development Should Not Mean Destruction”

Wangchuk emphasized that the march’s core goals are to protect the Himalayan environment and advocate for the restoration of democracy in Ladakh. Following the abrogation of Article 370 and Ladakh’s designation as a Union Territory, local voices have been marginalized, with key decisions being made without resident involvement.

“Building roads does not equal real development,” Wangchuk asserted, stressing that the inclusion of local communities in decision-making is crucial.

He pointed out that the Himalayan region is not only ecologically sensitive but also vital for national security. Restoring democracy in Ladakh would empower local communities to shape their own development and preserve their natural environment.

Call to Stop Mountain Exploitation

Wangchuk also spoke out against the destruction of mountains to satisfy the luxurious lifestyles of urban elites. He urged a return to simpler living that respects India’s traditions while preserving the environment.

“Mountains are being cut for one-lane roads that soon expand to two, four, or even six lanes. This unchecked exploitation must stop,” he cautioned.

He encouraged people living in the Himalayas to become more active in environmental advocacy, as greater local engagement can pressure political leaders to adopt sustainable policies.

Countdown to Climate Catastrophe

Wangchuk also highlighted the looming threat of climate change. Referring to the Climate Clock, a scientific tool tracking the time remaining to limit global warming to 1.5°C, he warned that if carbon emissions are not curtailed, humanity is headed for disaster. “We have only five years to take decisive action to save the planet,” he said.

Support from Environmental Leaders

The event featured several prominent environmentalists, including Guman Singh, Convenor of the Himalayan Policy Campaign Committee, and Joginder Walia, Convenor of the Land Acquisition Forum, among others. These leaders, alongside Wangchuk, underscored the need to prioritize ecological balance and protect democratic rights in Ladakh.

The march sends a strong message: development must never come at the cost of environmental destruction or the marginalization of local communities. Wangchuk’s movement stands as a call for a more sustainable and inclusive approach to development in the Himalayas.