The Advisor to the Lieutenant Governor, UT Ladakh, Dr. Pawan Kotwal, convened a significant meeting to discuss the Action Climate Plan - Net Zero by 2047, focusing on achieving a net-zero carbon footprint in Leh by 2047. The meeting took place at the Civil Secretariat, Leh.

A representative from the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), New Delhi, presented a detailed overview of the plan. The presentation covered baseline analysis, future climate implications, problem statement, vision, objectives, implementation roadmap, mitigating measures, adaptation measures, proposed public transport routes, Hop-on/Hop-off routes, and Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) infrastructure.

The meeting included in-depth discussions on the plan's objectives, strategies, and initiatives aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change in Leh. The draft plan features a range of measures to reduce the carbon footprint, promote sustainable development, and enhance resilience in Leh City.

Dr. Pawan Kotwal directed the NIUA to conduct a thorough study of the Master Plan for Leh district to ensure a holistic approach to sustainable development. He also instructed the Public Health Engineering Department to implement water recharge structures such as check-dams and infiltration galleries/holes to bolster the region's water conservation efforts.

Additionally, Dr. Kotwal directed the Power Development Department to electrify all government departments and offices with solar rooftop units, promoting renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. He also instructed the concerned department to issue necessary orders and notifications to minimize plastic footprints.

Dr. Kotwal emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing climate change and urged stakeholders to conduct a workshop to gain insights and suggestions from local experts in passive heated structures and artificial glaciers. He stressed the need for a unified approach to ensure a sustainable future for the district.

The meeting was attended by the Principal Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development; the Administrative Secretary of the Power Development and Renewable Energy/Tourism and Culture Department; the Chief Conservator of Forest; the Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Leh; Deputy Secretary of the Planning Development and Monitoring Department; Deputy Secretary of the PHE & I&FC/Public Works (R&B) Department; Under Secretary of the Transport/Disaster Management Relief Rehabilitation and Reconstruction; the Executive Officer of the Municipal Committee, Leh; and NIUA Team members. The Director of Urban Local Bodies, Ladakh, joined the meeting virtually.