Leh, Feb 19: Acting firmly against lapses in wastewater handling, the Ladakh Pollution Control Committee (LPCC) on Wednesday issued on-the-spot directions to several commercial establishments in the Chumathang Hot Spring area after detecting shortcomings in their Liquid Waste Management (LWM) systems.
Officials instructed the units concerned to rectify the deficiencies within a stipulated timeframe, making it clear that compliance with prescribed environmental standards would be closely monitored. The directions were issued immediately during the inspection wherever gaps were found in wastewater treatment and disposal mechanisms.
The inspection drive covered restaurants and other commercial establishments operating in and around the hot spring zone. Teams also surveyed stretches along the Indus River and adjoining Army establishments to review the overall status of wastewater treatment and discharge systems in the area.
During the visit, LPCC officials examined existing infrastructure for treatment and disposal of liquid waste, assessing whether systems were functioning in accordance with environmental norms. Establishments were advised to strengthen their mechanisms to prevent untreated discharge into surrounding land or water bodies.
Reiterating its position, the Committee stressed that strict adherence to environmental regulations is mandatory for all stakeholders — including commercial operators, local residents and visitors — to safeguard Ladakh’s fragile and ecologically sensitive landscape. With growing tourist activity in the hot spring belt, authorities underscored the collective responsibility to prevent pollution of natural resources.
The Committee further stated that it is mandated to monitor water quality under the provisions of the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. Regular inspections and monitoring exercises are being undertaken across the region to ensure compliance.
Issuing a public advisory, LPCC urged citizens and visitors not to litter or contaminate water bodies. It warned that any individual or establishment found violating environmental norms would be liable for penal action under the Act and other applicable laws, including initiation of legal proceedings where necessary.
The latest inspection forms part of sustained efforts to ensure that wastewater discharge does not compromise the Indus river system and the delicate ecology of the Chumathang region.
