Union Minister of Power and Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, visited Leh on Thursday to review the functioning of the power and housing departments in the Union Territory (UT) of Ladakh. Khattar is currently on a three-day visit to Ladakh.
During the review meeting, Khattar was briefed by officials on the achievements and ongoing initiatives of the power and housing departments. He expressed satisfaction with the progress and assured full support in overcoming the challenges posed by the tough terrain of the region.
Focus on Waste Management and Safai Mitra Welfare
Khattar noted that Ladakh aims to achieve 100% processing of waste materials, and a detailed report on this initiative was presented during the meeting. He also emphasized the ministry’s commitment to improving the working conditions of ‘Safai Mitras’ to ensure they do not face occupational hazards.
The Minister directed that under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0, Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for water supply and sewage treatment projects in Leh and Kargil be finalized swiftly. This will ensure timely implementation of vital infrastructure projects aimed at improving the quality of life in both regions.
Housing for All and Support for Street Vendors
Khattar assured that no person in Ladakh would remain homeless, and a survey would be conducted to identify homeless individuals eligible for benefits under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. He also highlighted that financial assistance had been extended to all street vendors under the PM Swanidhi scheme, with efforts to ensure full coverage.
The Union Minister also discussed the region’s potential for solar power development, stating that work is underway for a 13 GW solar power plant in Ladakh. This plant will not only meet local energy needs but also contribute to the energy requirements of other parts of the country.
Addressing concerns about power supply during the harsh winter months, Khattar mentioned that additional power demands in Ladakh are being met through the Government of India’s excess power quota. He assured that the manpower issues within the Power department would be addressed promptly.
Khattar noted that projects worth Rs 1,080 crore have been awarded under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme, with works already underway. He emphasized that power supply and distribution lines will be extended to Nubra and Zanskar Valleys, which will significantly improve energy access in these remote regions. Efforts to eliminate bottlenecks in project implementation are being made on a war footing.
Khattar’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and living standards in Ladakh, with a particular focus on sustainable energy solutions and urban development.