Leh/Jammu, Jul 24 : Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Thursday laid the foundation stone for a comprehensive infrastructure upgradation and beautification project for the historic Leh old town, aimed at preserving its heritage while creating modern urban infrastructure.
Officials said the project, guided by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”, seeks to integrate modern civic amenities with heritage conservation to preserve the old town’s unique architecture and cultural identity while meeting the needs of a growing urban centre.
According to the officials, the project includes construction of a multipurpose trench and common utility duct for underground shifting of water supply, sewerage, electricity, telecommunication and other public utility networks.
It also envisages pedestrian-friendly pathways, heritage-sensitive streetscaping, improved drainage, ornamental lighting, heritage-style wayfinding signage, parking facilities, landscaping, benches, upgraded public amenities and enhanced urban aesthetics, they said.
The officials said Saxena had inspected the historic lanes of Leh Old Town and the main market on March 15, just two days after assuming office, and noted several civic shortcomings, including unregulated construction, overhead utility cables, open drainage channels, repeated road cutting and inadequate public amenities that were adversely affecting the heritage character of the centuries-old settlement.
Following the visit, he directed the concerned departments to prepare a comprehensive plan for the heritage-led transformation of the area while ensuring that all interventions respect its historical and cultural essence.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said the project, which took nearly four months of planning, consultations and design, was close to his heart and is targeted for completion by the end of September.
He described the initiative as a practical manifestation of the prime minister’s vision of balancing development with heritage conservation, adding that Ladakh has witnessed significant infrastructure growth since becoming a Union Territory while preserving its unique cultural identity and fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
Saxena said the project would improve the quality of life for residents of Leh Old Town and enhance the experience of tourists by creating a cleaner, organised and pedestrian-friendly heritage precinct.
He said the initiative is also expected to strengthen heritage tourism and generate new livelihood opportunities for local artisans, shopkeepers, homestay owners, tourist guides and others associated with the tourism sector.
