Kargil: Additional Deputy Commissioner, Kargil, Imteeaz Kacho emphasized that Kargil District is truly fortunate to be blessed by the forthcoming visit of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, adding that the District Administration will make every possible effort to ensure a smooth and comfortable stay for the revered spiritual leader.
Kacho made these remarks during his maiden visit to Padum, the headquarters of Zanskar Sub-Division, where he reviewed the ongoing preparations and arrangements being made for the visit. The review meeting was attended by SDM Mohammad Hassan, SHO-Zanskar, Ven. Gashes Lobzang Tsetan, President of Zanskar Buddhist Association (ZBA), and various Sub-Divisional Officers and Nodal Officers.
The ADC praised the sincerity of the Sub-Divisional Administration and organizers, yet stressed there was ample scope for improvement. He encouraged officers to project Zanskar as a model sub-division, capable of organizing large-scale events of international significance. He also said that devotees visiting from across the Union Territory should feel welcomed and at home.
Kacho issued clear instructions to ensure fool-proof arrangements and efficient service delivery. He also directed departments to set up stalls near the sermon venues to offer essential information and assistance.
Following the meeting, Kacho visited both the old and new Photangs—designated accommodations for His Holiness—and assessed the progress of renovation and logistic arrangements. He reviewed parking areas for devotees, examined the traffic management plan, and visited the new Photang in Karsha being developed by the Zanskar Development Authority (ZDA).
The Photang management, led by Ven. Gashes Lobzang Tsetan, appreciated the support and responsiveness of the District Administration.
In his capacity as CEO, Tourism Development Authority of Zanskar, Kacho also visited the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) Padum, where he reviewed various projects under the State Development Package (SDP) and Capex. He was briefed by the Executive Engineer and his team, and he commended the ongoing work, urging early completion of all pending tasks.
Kacho emphasized making new buildings winter-friendly and environmentally conscious, recommending the use of mudbrick construction and prioritizing public conveniences and roadside amenities. He also asked that any project facing land or legal disputes be brought to the attention of the Revenue Department without delay.
Later, he visited the ZDA office, interacted with the staff, and advised them to deliver result-oriented governance. He inspected various sections and took stock of their functioning.
The ADC also visited the under-construction Revenue Department Complex, including the Tehsildar’s Office and Conference Hall, accompanied by SDM and officials from PWD.
Finally, in his role as Joint Director, Information, Kacho visited the under-construction Staff Quarters of the Tehsil Information Centre (TIC). Accompanied by the SDM and Junior Engineer from PWD, he was briefed about the project timeline and addressed issues raised by the TIC staff.
