The Diplomat Desk
Leh, TDD, Hon’ble Chairman/CEC, Adv. Tashi Gyalson, convened a meeting to address the pressing issues of groundwater water quality in Leh on December 14.
The meeting brought together key personalities, including Hon’ble Deputy Chairman Tsering Angchuk, Hon’ble Executive Councillor Ghulam Mehdi, Principal Secretary Dr. Vasanthakumar Namasivayam; Administrative Secretary Michael M. D’Souza; APCCF Brij Mohan Sharma; DC/CEO, LAHDC, Santosh Sukhadeve;Deputy Secretary PW(R&B) Zakir Hussain; CMO, Leh Dr. Dolma Chuskit; Physician Specialist Dr. Lotos Gailson; Deputy Director, Geology Mohd Aslam ; Water quality expert Parikh Shukla; Superintendent Engineer, PHE Mohammad Aslam ; Xen PHE Kacho Mumtaz ; chief chemist JJM Urgyain Nurboo, Stanzin Tsephel Expert, Researcher Lobzang Chorol.
The main Discussions revolved around Groundwater Quality and the meeting highlighted the levels of groundwater contamination in Leh town, with several samples from private and government borewells failing to meet prescribed standards.
The progress of the Water Treatment Plant under construction at Choglamsar was thoroughly reviewed, with the primary goal of ensuring a clean and reliable water supply to Leh town. The meeting included an in-depth discussion on the advantages and challenges of centralized versus decentralized sewage treatment systems. Additionally, there was a comprehensive review of the upcoming second phase of the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) near the airport, highlighting its potential to improve local infrastructure and sustainability.
Principal Secretary Vasanthakumar and Secretary Michael D’Souza stressed the need for a deeper investigation into the sources for effectively resolve water quality issues.
Hon’ble CEC highlighted the importance of conducting a detailed study on groundwater availability, movement, and aquifer characteristics to ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources and effective management strategies.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to addressing the critical issues of groundwater quality in Leh, with a focus on ensuring a safer and healthier environment for the community. Several proposed solutions were discussed, including a plan to conduct extensive groundwater testing at multiple locations. The department will undertake comprehensive testing to assess water quality and mitigate potential health risks.TDD
