Leh, May 13 : Divisional Commissioner, UT Ladakh, Shurbir Singh on Monday evening conducted an on-site inspection of Leh Old Town to review persistent civic and infrastructure issues, directing concerned departments to prepare detailed proposals for comprehensive redevelopment and improved urban management in the heritage area.
Accompanied by Administrative Secretary, Public Works Department, Baseer-ul-Haq Choudhary, Deputy Commissioner Leh Romil Singh Donk, and senior officers from various departments, the Divisional Commissioner inspected several congested pockets of the Old Town where residents have long raised concerns over inadequate civic infrastructure and deteriorating public amenities.
During the visit, officials assessed problems relating to sewage and drainage systems, unregulated electricity wiring, insufficient street lighting and the deteriorating condition of footpaths and pedestrian walkways in the historic locality.
The Divisional Commissioner instructed departments to prepare detailed project documentation for scientific sewage and drainage disposal systems and emphasised the need for planned urban intervention that balances civic improvement with preservation of the area’s traditional character.
He also directed officials to develop aesthetically appropriate walkways using traditional slate stones in keeping with the architectural identity of Leh Old Town, while ensuring safer and more accessible pedestrian movement for both residents and tourists.
Concern was also expressed over tangled electricity wiring and poorly illuminated stretches within the locality. Officials from the Power Development Department were directed to streamline electrical infrastructure and install adequate street lighting to eliminate dark spots in the area.
The Municipal Committee Leh was instructed to strengthen waste management mechanisms and improve sanitation services in the densely populated heritage zone.
During the inspection, the Divisional Commissioner and accompanying officers interacted with local residents and assured them that genuine concerns raised by the community would be incorporated into the planning and execution process.
He stressed that all developmental works should be undertaken with proper coordination and phased planning to minimise inconvenience to residents and visitors while ensuring long-term improvement in urban infrastructure within Leh’s historic core.
