Ladakh Irrigation Projects are set to receive a major push with the Union Territory administration seeking Centre’s approval for 36 new check dams. The proposed projects aim to strengthen water security, expand irrigation infrastructure and bring more cultivable land under assured irrigation.
The proposal has been submitted to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti. The projects have an estimated cost of more than ₹56 crore and have been proposed under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY).
Ladakh Irrigation Projects Cover Leh and Kargil
The proposal includes seven Himalayan Rock Check Dams in Leh. It also covers 29 reinforced cement concrete (RCC) check dams and weirs in Kargil.
The Ladakh administration submitted the proposal following directions from Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena.
The Ministry of Jal Shakti is currently considering the proposal. Approval will enable the administration to move ahead with the planned water infrastructure projects.
18,600 Acres Targeted Under New Irrigation Projects
The Detailed Project Report submitted to the ministry estimates that the 36 check dams could provide irrigation to more than 18,600 acres of land.
The projects will focus on capturing and storing water from the Indus River in Leh and the Suru River in Kargil. The stored water will support existing irrigation networks and expand the area under assured irrigation.
Projects Aim to Strengthen Water Security
Ladakh faces seasonal water shortages that affect agricultural activity. The region has significant glaciers, snowfall and glacial meltwater resources, but much of this water remains underutilised.
The administration has stated that less than one per cent of Ladakh’s annual snow and glacial meltwater is currently being utilised.
The proposed check dams are aimed at improving water conservation and resource management. They could also support agricultural productivity by providing more reliable water availability.
PMKSY Support Could Accelerate Water Infrastructure
The proposed projects have been submitted for inclusion under PMKSY, the Centre’s irrigation-focused programme.
If approved, the check dams could strengthen Ladakh’s irrigation network while improving the use of available water resources. The initiative also aligns with the broader objective of expanding assured irrigation and improving water-use efficiency.
The proposed Ladakh Irrigation Projects represent an important step towards strengthening the region’s water infrastructure. With 36 check dams planned across Leh and Kargil, the initiative could improve irrigation access, support agriculture and enhance long-term water security.
