In celebration of World Earth Day, a significant plantation drive was carried out on April 22 at the Bombgarh site in Leh. The event was jointly organized by the Forest Department Leh in collaboration with the Municipal Committee Leh.

The Bombgarh site, which had served as a dumping ground for legacy waste for over 30 years, has recently been completely transformed through bio-mining—a process that has successfully cleared and reclaimed the land.

Sonam Nurbu (JKAS), Administrator of the Municipal Committee Leh and Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Leh, attended the event as the Chief Guest. He was joined by the Range Officer of the Forest Department Leh and other officials from the Municipal Committee.

Approximately one-third of the total reclaimed site is now being converted into green space. This initiative, in accordance with the directives of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), seeks to restore ecological balance and mitigate the environmental and health impacts previously endured by residents living near the former dump site.

Under this afforestation effort—funded through CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority)—a total of 8,000 saplings are scheduled to be planted. As a beginning, 400 saplings were planted on World Earth Day.

A standout feature of the initiative is the sustainable use of treated wastewater from the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) for irrigation. The water is being transported using dedicated tankers and suction machines, promoting an eco-friendly and resource-efficient model. In addition, a drip irrigation system is being implemented to ensure effective and judicious use of water resources, supporting long-term sustainability.

This plantation drive serves as a model for integrated waste management, environmental restoration, and sustainable resource utilization in the Leh region.