Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory of Ladakh, Vinai Kumar Saxena, on May 4 met Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, in New Delhi to discuss ongoing and proposed infrastructure development initiatives in Ladakh’s municipal areas.

During the meeting, the Lieutenant Governor briefed the Union Minister on key projects, including the establishment of decentralised sewage treatment plants (DSTPs), 24x7 drinking water supply systems, and hydroelectric power projects. Referring to the recent creation of five new districts, he emphasised the urgent need to strengthen sewage management across all seven districts. He informed that small, decentralised units have been identified for setting up DSTPs, which are cost-effective, efficient, and 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 vital to Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem. He noted that the DSTP initiative would contribute significantly to ecological sustainability in high-altitude regions while remaining economically viable due to its low-cost design.

The Union Minister appreciated the initiatives undertaken by the UT Administration and asked for submission of a detailed proposal on the establishment of DSTPs for consideration by the Ministry.

Saxena also raised concerns regarding 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 transmission systems, reservoirs, and distribution networks to ensure a reliable and sustainable water supply.

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.

The Union Minister assured full support from the Government of India for implementing these key infrastructure projects aimed at improving urban services and promoting sustainable development in Ladakh.