Leh, November 3: Commissioner/ Secretary (PWD-R&B), Ajeet Kumar Sahu convened a meeting to review the progress/status of works/funds under centrally sponsored schemes implemented in the Union territory of Ladakh. 

During the meeting, the Commissioner /Secretary directed the officials of both Leh and Kargil to submit a report on winter preparedness concerning water tankers. He directed them to identify the areas with water shortages where these tankers would be used and also set up a helpline number for the public.

Regarding solar water pumps, he asked the officials of Leh and Kargil to identify 100 villages in Ladakh where these solar water pumps worth Rs 600 lakhs, already procured, would be installed. He informed that these solar water pumps will serve a dual purpose. He added that in the winter months, they’ll be used to supply drinking water and in the summer months they will be used for irrigation purposes. He directed the IFC officers to equip these p[umps with sensor based system  like in Changa village for effective monitoring of their functioning. He also asked them to plan and install 200 solar water pumps next year. 

* Click to Follow Voice of Ladakh on WhatsApp *

He directed the officials to submit a comprehensive revised proposal on Sodh and Sakti canals for completing these projects.

Regarding the master plan of irrigation network, he asked the officials to set up a 4-member technical evaluation committee and speed up the tender allotment process.

Talking about the water ponds, he directed the officials to plan for more water ponds in the next FY to promote water conservation during winters. He directed the officials to get clearance from CWC for Leh and Basgo nallah projects at the earliest to complete these projects. 

Commissioner Secretary, Sahu also asked the concerned officials to submit additional DPRS under AIBP projects within 20 days. 

Earlier, the officials from the concerned departments apprised the Commissioner/Secretary on the progress and status of works on various projects under centrally sponsored schemes. 

The meeting was attended by Chief Engineer PWD; Chief Engineer PHE/I&FC; JD (Planning) and Sr. Accounts Officer.