Discusses key infrastructure development projects for Ladakh
New Delhi, May 4: The Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, called on the Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs of India, Shri Manohar Lal Khattar, in New Delhi today and apprised him of various ongoing and proposed infrastructure development initiatives in the municipal areas of Ladakh.
During the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor briefed the Union Minister on key projects, including the establishment of decentralised sewage treatment plants (DSTPs), 24×7 drinking water supply systems, and hydroelectric power projects. Highlighting the recent creation of five new districts, the Lieutenant Governor emphasised the urgent need to address sewage management across all seven districts. He informed that small, decentralised blocks have been identified for setting up DSTPs, which are cost-effective, efficient, and well-suited to Ladakh’s unique terrain and dispersed habitation patterns.
The Lieutenant Governor stated that the UT Administration is committed to ensuring that no untreated sewage is discharged into rivers and streams, which are critical to Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem. He noted that the DSTP initiative would significantly contribute to ecological sustainability in high-altitude regions like Ladakh while remaining economically viable due to its low-cost design.
The Union Minister appreciated the initiatives such as establishment of DSTPs undertaken by the UT Administration and asked to submit a detailed proposal for the establishment of DSTPs in Ladakh to the Ministry for consideration.
Shri Saxena also raised concerns regarding the inadequate water supply in Leh town. He informed that against a current demand of 8 MLD, only 3 MLD is being supplied. He highlighted a comprehensive proposal for augmentation of the water supply system at an estimated cost of ₹56.04 crore. Of this, ₹31 crore has already been sanctioned under the AMRUT scheme, while ₹25.04 crore remains to be funded.
He requested the release of the pending amount to strengthen the transmission systems, reservoirs, and distribution networks to ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply for residents.
On hydroelectric power development, the Lieutenant Governor discussed the potential for harnessing Ladakh’s resources to meet its energy needs. The Union Minister advised identifying suitable locations for hydroelectric projects to ensure electrification of all villages and to move towards making Ladakh power self-sufficient.
Shri Khattar assured full support from the Government of India in implementing these critical infrastructure projects aimed at improving urban services and promoting sustainable development in Ladakh.
