A cleanliness and sanitation drive in Leh town jointly conducted by Municipal Committee Leh, LEDeG and ALTOA since September 15 was concluded on September 29.

An eco-friendly reusable and recyclable carry bag was launched as an alternative to polythene and plastic carry bags. Also, a de-slugging motor vehicle was also launched by MC, Leh in collaboration with LEDeG and ALTOA.

Moses Kunzang, ADC, Leh, chief guest said that the administration and Hill council alone cannot address all the problems and stressed on the need for collaborative effort including NGOs, social, private organisation and individuals to achieve success in the causes like cleanliness.

He highlighted the initiatives and efforts taken by Hill Council in redressing issues of waste management, water scarcity, traffic management, etc.

 

He also informed about the initiatives taken by BORDA (Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association) in waste management and sanitation projects, reconstruction of Changspa road to address traffic congestion, reusable and recyclable carry bags and also the advancement of a machine called Blackhole from Bangalore in the next few days to be installed at Bombguard to clear the garbage dump.

Dr. Nordan Otzer, Executive Director, LEDeG informed about the ill effects of plastics and their use not only on the environment but for health also.  He shared the facts about contamination of underground water by sanitary waste, water shortage and stressed on the use of traditional local toilets.

 

He urged everyone to come together to address issues like cleanliness and water management rather than making government accountable for everything.

Tsetan Angchuk, President ALTOA informed about their cleanliness campaigns and other initiatives in contributing their bit to preserve and protect the fragile environment of Ladakh.

A skit by Ladakh Film Society, a dance performance by children of Dance Motion and song by female artists were also presented.