To review the progress of ongoing works/schemes of PHE/I&FC Departments and for the preparation of Jal Jivan Mission plan for UT Ladakh, Umang Narula, Advisor to L-G Ladakh chaired a meeting on December 14 in Leh.

Issues regarding PHE, I&FC sector were taken up for deliberations and the Advisor directed the engineers to find innovative technological solutions to ensure supply of drinking water during the winter season in Ladakh.

Narula directed the officers of PHE/I&FC Departments to start with a small pilot project to supply drinking water at subzero temperature during winter by using available technology, on experimental basis, so that its functioning is subsequently evaluated for further improvements and corrective measures. He also stressed upon the engineers to make schemes that ensure year-round water supply.

While reviewing the groundwater levels in Ladakh, Narula directed the department to make use of the record of all groundwater data of Ladakh available with the Central Ground Water Board. The Chief Engineer was directed to request the Central Ground Water Board for opening a sub-office of the board in Ladakh.

While reviewing I&FC Sector, Umang Narula directed to complete all pending projects of minor irrigation on top priority. He also suggested the adoption of new technologies in the construction of minor irrigation canals.

Narula directed Nazir Ahmad Bhat, Chief Engineer, PHE/I&FC to furnish the detailed requirement of technical and other manpower based on substantive data and with full justification.

He also directed immediate preparation of the Jal Jivan Mission plan, for Ladakh by keeping in mind about the influx of tourists and other relevant parameters to ensure hassle-free safe drinking water to all households.

District Superintending Engineer, PWD, Leh and District Superintending Engineer, PWD, Kargil were also present.