Leh: Union Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal, today reviewed the performance of the power and housing departments in the Union Territory of Ladakh during his three-day visit to the region.
In a detailed meeting with concerned officials, the Minister was briefed on the progress of various ongoing projects and the operational challenges faced by these departments in Ladakh’s rugged terrain. Lal expressed his satisfaction with the departments’ work and assured full support to overcome the difficulties arising due to the region’s geographical constraints.
After the meeting, Manohar Lal spoke to the media about key initiatives that are underway to improve the living conditions in Ladakh. He noted that Ladakh is on track to achieve 100% processing of waste material, and a comprehensive report on this project was presented to him. He also emphasized the Ministry’s focus on improving the working conditions of Safai Mitras, ensuring their safety while performing their duties.
In line with the government’s vision of sustainable urban development, the Minister directed the authorities to expedite the finalization of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for water supply and Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) projects under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0. The completion of these reports will pave the way for the swift implementation of these essential infrastructure projects in Leh and Kargil, improving the quality of life for residents in both towns.
The Union Minister also highlighted efforts to address homelessness in Ladakh. He stated that a comprehensive survey of homeless individuals will be conducted to ensure that everyone benefits from the PM Awas Yojana, with a commitment to ensuring that no one remains homeless in the region. Additionally, he mentioned that financial assistance has been provided to street vendors under the PM Swanidhi Scheme, and measures will be taken to ensure no one is left out of this support.
Recognizing Ladakh’s vast potential for solar energy development, Manohar Lal informed the media about the progress on a monumental 13 GW solar power plant that is being set up in the region. This plant will not only fulfill the local energy needs but also contribute significantly to the power supply in other parts of India.
Addressing the energy challenges faced by the region, especially during harsh winter months, the Minister highlighted that additional power requirements are being met from the Government of India’s excess quota. This will ensure an uninterrupted power supply for Ladakh’s residents during the severe winter season. Efforts to resolve staffing shortages within the Power department are also underway, he assured.
The Minister also discussed the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme in Ladakh, with works valued at ₹1,080 crore already awarded and implementation underway. In a significant move to further enhance power access, Lal emphasized the establishment of power supply and distribution lines extending up to Nubra Valley and Zanskar Valley, which will help meet the growing energy demands of these remote regions. He added that all necessary steps are being taken on a war footing to remove any bottlenecks associated with these critical projects.
Manohar Lal’s visit to Ladakh reflects the government’s strong commitment to the region’s development, focusing on infrastructure, energy sustainability, and inclusive growth, to ensure Ladakh continues its progress as an integral part of India’s development journey.