New Delhi, August 19: Ladakh’s Lieutenant Governor, Shri Kavinder Gupta, met Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal Khattar, in the capital to press for urgent support on major infrastructure and sustainability projects.
During the discussion, the LG highlighted two ambitious 24×7 drinking water supply projects for Leh and Kargil, costing over ₹700 crore. These projects, already sanctioned under AMRUT 2.0 and included in the State Water Action Plan, aim to tackle Ladakh’s growing groundwater depletion crisis. Central assistance of ₹62 crore has been assured, with the UT expected to raise the remaining share.
Gupta stressed that water scarcity poses a severe risk for future generations in the high-altitude region, making these schemes critical for long-term security. He also underlined that ₹128 crore has been allocated to Ladakh under AMRUT 2.0, with the first two funding tranches already released.
In addition to water supply, the LG sought Central backing for a housing initiative under PMAY-U 2.0 to address the rising demand for urban housing in Leh and Kargil. He further pressed for speedy completion of the MNRE-backed Pang-Kharnak project and reiterated Ladakh’s commitment to becoming a carbon-neutral energy hub, in line with the Prime Minister’s vision.
Minister Khattar assured full cooperation from the Centre, acknowledging Ladakh’s unique developmental needs. The LG affirmed that the UT administration will move swiftly to implement these projects for sustainable growth and improved living standards in the Himalayan region.
About the Author
