Leh, July 04: The Advisor to the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor, UT Ladakh, Dr Pawan Kotwal convened a significant meeting to discuss the Action Climate Plan-Net Zero by 2047, aimed to deliberate on the comprehensive plan to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint in Leh by 2047, at the Civil Secretariat, Leh.

At the outset of the meeting, a detailed presentation by a representative from the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), New Delhi, outlining the baseline analysis, future climate implications, problem statement, vision, objectives, implementation roadmap, mitigating measures, adaptation measures, proposed public transport routes, Hop-on/Hop-off routes, and Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) infrastructure.

Detailed deliberations and discussions were held on the plan’s objectives, strategies, and initiatives aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change in Leh. The draft plan encompasses a range of measures to reduce carbon footprint, promote sustainable development, and enhance resilience in Leh City.

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The Advisor Dr Pawan Kotwal directed the NIUA to conduct a thorough study of the Master Plan for Leh district, ensuring a holistic approach to sustainable development. Additionally, he instructed the Public Health Engineering Department to conduct water recharge structures like check-dams and infiltration galleries/holes to augment the region’s water conservation efforts.

Dr Pawan Kotwal also directed the Power Development Department to electrify all Government Departments and offices with Solar Rooftop Units, promoting renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, he instructed the concerned department to issue necessary orders and notifications to minimize plastic footprints.

Dr Pawan Kotwal highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the pressing issue of climate change and urged stakeholders to conduct a workshop to obtain valuable insights and suggestions from local people/local experts who have worked in the field of passive heated structures, creation of artificial glaciers, etc. to refine the plan. He stressed the need for a unified approach to ensure a sustainable future for the district.

The meeting was attended by the Principal Secretary of the Housing and Urban Development; the Administrative Secretary of the Power Development and Renewable Energy/Tourism and Culture Department; the Chief Conservator of Forest; the Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Leh; Deputy Secretary of the Planning Development and Monitoring Department; Deputy Secretary of the PHE & I&FC/Public Works (R&B) Department; Under Secretary of the Transport/Disaster Management Relief Rehabilitation and Reconstruction; the Executive Officer of the Municipal Committee, Leh; and NIUA Team members, while the Director of Urban Local Bodies, Ladakh joined the meeting virtually.