Leh, Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinay Kumar Saxena on Saturday ordered the administration to prepare a plan to create at least 50 small water bodies across the Union Territory.
The LG, during a meeting with Chief Secretary Ashish Kundra, also directed to identify sites and prepare a detailed action plan within 15 days.
“Ladakh, as a cold, high-altitude desert region, is increasingly facing the negative impacts of climate change. The region is witnessing reduced snowfall, receding glaciers, rising temperatures, and depleting groundwater tables, all of which pose serious challenges to water availability for the people of Ladakh,” LG said.
He stressed that adopting sustainable water management practices is essential to mitigate the impact of climate change and ensure long-term water security for the people of Ladakh.
He said the proposed water bodies would not only help meet irrigation needs but would also contribute to enhancing sustainability and livelihoods of local communities.
Saxena directed that the proposed plan be comprehensive and scientifically designed, taking into account the geographical and climatic conditions of the region, so that the water bodies can effectively serve agricultural and societal needs.
He reiterated the commitment of the Union Territory administration to take measures to protect the fragile ecosystem of Ladakh while ensuring the well-being and security of livelihood of its people.
An official said that the main objective behind developing these water bodies is to address the water-related challenges faced by the people of Ladakh, especially farmers who depend heavily on limited water resources for irrigation.
Moreover, these water bodies will also meet the irrigation needs of the roadside farm, which will begin mission mode soon.
He said the water bodies, which will be developed in consultation with local residents, will also be used to conserve rainwater as well as snowmelt that is wasted every year.
Moreover, during winter, when these water bodies freeze, they can also be used to organize winter sports, the official said.
Saxena directed the Chief Secretary to provide recreational and public facilities, including parking spaces and restaurants around the water bodies.
This article was generated from an automated news feed without any modifications to the text.
