Chairman/CEC, Adv. Tashi Gyalson, convened a meeting to address the pressing issues of groundwater quality and water management in Leh on December 14.

The meeting brought together key officials, including Deputy Chairman Tsering Angchuk; Executive Councillor Ghulam Mehdi; Principal Secretary Dr. Vasanthakumar Namasivayam; Administrative Secretary Michael M. D'Souza; APCCF Brij Mohan Sharma; DC/CEO, LAHDC, Santosh Sukhadeve; Deputy Secretary PW(R&B) Zakir Hussain; CMO Leh Dr. Dolma Chuskit; Physician Specialist Dr. Lotos Gailson; Deputy Director of Geology Mohd Aslam; water quality expert Parikh Shukla; Superintendent Engineer PHE Mohammad Aslam; Xen PHE Kacho Mumtaz; Chief Chemist JJM Urgyain Nurboo; and experts Stanzin Tsephel and Lobzang Chorol.

The discussions primarily focused on the quality of groundwater in Leh, with reports indicating that several samples from private and government borewells failed to meet prescribed standards.

Progress on the Water Treatment Plant under construction at Choglamsar was reviewed in detail. The plant aims to ensure a clean and reliable water supply to Leh town. The meeting also included an in-depth discussion on centralized versus decentralized sewage treatment systems, exploring their advantages and challenges. Additionally, the upcoming second phase of the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) near the airport was thoroughly reviewed, with emphasis on its potential to enhance infrastructure and promote sustainability.

Principal Secretary Dr. Vasanthakumar and Secretary Michael D'Souza stressed the need for a deeper investigation into the sources of contamination to effectively resolve water quality issues. CEC Tashi Gyalson underscored the importance of conducting detailed studies on groundwater availability, movement, and aquifer characteristics to ensure sustainable water resource management.

The meeting concluded with a strong commitment to addressing groundwater quality issues and improving water management in Leh. Proposed solutions included extensive groundwater testing at multiple locations to assess water quality and mitigate potential health risks. The department will undertake comprehensive measures to ensure a safer and healthier environment for the community.