Kargil, November 14, 2025:
Administrative Secretary for Tourism & Culture and Housing & Urban Development, Sanjit Rodrigues, IAS, conducted an extensive review of the Saspol Heritage Caves and Mulbek Chamba heritage site, calling for immediate and professionally guided conservation efforts.
At Mulbek Chamba, Secretary Rodrigues—joined by officials from the Culture Department, Archives, ASI, CPWD, TDA Kargil, and other agencies—assessed the site’s condition and expressed concern over delays and miscommunication hampering preservation work. Stressing that heritage conservation must be handled by experts, he said, “Much will pass and go, but we must ensure these sites are conserved for the next 500 years.”
Local representatives sought a devotee footpath and a museum near the Chamba statue. Rodrigues asked ASI to examine the proposals and directed PDD to shift obstructing poles and improve lighting to maintain the site’s cultural integrity. Dissatisfied with ASI’s progress, he scheduled a follow-up review on November 17.
During his visit to the Saspol Heritage Caves, the Secretary met village heads and religious leaders, initiating the process to declare the area a protected heritage zone under the Ancient Monuments and Preservation Act. He stressed the need for scientifically sound conservation methods and noted that ASI experts would soon begin reconnaissance work. Calling the caves the “Ajanta and Ellora of Ladakh,” he urged the community to extend full cooperation.
Local demands for an approach road, pathways, protective walls, and railings were acknowledged, with Rodrigues assuring that necessary works would be included in next year’s development plan. He also instructed the Revenue Department to prepare land records required for formal heritage notification.
In Khalsi, the Secretary inspected the newly built double-storey library, directing officials to expedite its completion and incorporate eco-friendly, solar-powered features. He also ordered the removal of old structures to create visitor parking.
Reviewing the CPWD-constructed Information Department Auditorium, Rodrigues was informed that the project will be completed by September 2026. He urged executing agencies to maintain quality and adhere to deadlines.
Concluding the visit, the Secretary reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to preserving Ladakh’s cultural and architectural legacy, emphasizing the need for unhindered execution of conservation works. A follow-up stakeholder meeting will be convened soon to ensure timely progress.
