Leh, December 16, 2024: CEC Adv.Tashi Gyalson inaugurated the Vertical Automated Ice Reservoirs project Leh on 16th December at Warila Sakti, in the presence of former CEC Gyal P. Wangyal and Executive Councillor Stanzin Chosphel. The project was launched under the collaboration between the Administration of Union Territory of Ladakh and the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Leh.

Thinles Dawa, Joint Director; Murtaza Ali, Executive Engineer, Irrigation and Control Division; Mohammad Abbas, Superintendent Engineer, Public Health Engineering (PHE); Phuntsog Wangyal, AEE, Irrigation;JE irrigation, Aadil hussain lone along with the former Sarpanch ; Goba and a team of acres of ice were present during the inauguration.

The Vertical Automated Ice Reservoirs project is an innovative step designed to address water scarcity in Ladakh, especially considering the challenges posed by climate change. This technology aims to increase the freezing window for ice formation, helping optimize water storage during winter months. The system works by automatically stopping the ice-spraying mechanism when the temperature rises above freezing, ensuring that the ice formation process is efficient and effective. Funded under the CAPEX (Capital Expenditure) and SDP (State Development Plan), this project is a crucial initiative for the long-term sustainability of water resources in the region.

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The pilot project, located in Sakti, uses cutting-edge technology to fully automate the ice formation process, eliminating the need for manual labor while providing more control over ice production. If successful, the project will be expanded to other areas in Ladakh to further address water scarcity and irrigation challenges. The project has received recognition from the Ministry of Jal Shakti for its potential to create a lasting solution to the region’s water issues.

CEC Ad. Tashi Gyalson in his address ,congratulated the people of Sakti village and emphasized the importance of adopting innovative technologies to mitigate the impact of climate change. He highlighted the necessity of such systems, which can reduce reliance on manpower while improving the efficiency of water conservation efforts. The CEC also assured that the Council is in active communication with the Ministry of Jal Shakti, which has acknowledged the project’s potential for long-term benefits.He further stressed that the Vertical Automated Ice Reservoirs project is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of the people of Ladakh, particularly the agricultural community, by providing a reliable and sustainable water source.

Executive Councillor Stanzin Chosphel expressed his gratitude to the CEC for his leadership and tireless support in bringing this project to fruition. He also acknowledged the hard work and cooperation of the local community in making this project a reality.

Joint Director Thinles Dawa commended the project’s innovative approach, emphasizing that such initiatives will inspire local youth to engage in technology-driven solutions for regional challenges. He also thanked CEC Tashi Gyalson for securing the necessary funds and resources to implement the project.

The project builds upon the success of the Norphel Ice Stupa initiative, with the aim of further enhancing water storage for agricultural use. By implementing vertical ice reservoirs, the LAHDC seeks to provide a sustainable solution for farmers during dry periods, ensuring better water availability for irrigation.