Leh: Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Sunday launched a plantation drive of 2,100 cherry saplings at Phyang village in Leh as part of efforts to promote environmental conservation and sustainable development in the region.
Addressing the gathering, Saxena described the initiative as a significant step towards securing Ladakh’s future and preserving its fragile ecosystem.
The plantation drive was organised by the Drikung Dharma Foundation in collaboration with SankalpTaru Foundation under the guidance of DrikungSkyabgonChetsang Rinpoche.
Saxena urged people to actively participate in plantation drives and environmental conservation activities and announced a new public participation programme under which every family in Ladakh would be encouraged to plant at least 10 saplings and ensure their survival.
The L-G said families achieving the highest survival rate of planted trees would be recognised and awarded.
Highlighting the ecological challenges faced by the cold desert region, Saxena said Ladakh requires extensive plantation efforts and nature-based solutions to combat environmental degradation and secure the future of the coming generations.
He said the plantation of cherry saplings marked a new initiative aimed at introducing diverse plant species suited to Ladakh’s climatic conditions and enhancing the region’s green cover.
According to the L-G, more than 8,000 saplings have already been planted across Ladakh since he took charge, and the latest plantation drive marks another milestone towards improving the region’s floral diversity.
Saxena also lauded the efforts of the Drikung Dharma Foundation for its continued contribution towards environmental protection and social welfare in different parts of Ladakh.
He also approved the installation of a 500 kWp on-grid solar photovoltaic (SPV) plant atop the Ice hockey rink in Leh, with the Union territory set to achieve a unique fusion of renewable energy generation and modern sporting infrastructure.
Saxena said that the project will strengthen Ladakh’s green energy goals and support the development of world-class winter sports infrastructure.
The project, to be developed under the Special Development Package (SDP) of the Youth Services and Sports Department with an estimated cost of Rs 2.38 crore, aims to promote renewable energy and sustainable sports infrastructure in the Union Territory, officials said.
Officials said the rooftop solar plant will help reduce electricity costs and carbon emissions while supporting Ladakh’s goal of becoming a carbon-neutral region.
Calling the project an important step towards integrating clean energy with modern sports infrastructure, Saxena said the initiative reflects the administration’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the development of world-class sports facilities for the youth of Ladakh.
The NDS Ice Hockey Rink in Leh has hosted the Khelo India Winter Games for three consecutive years and has emerged as a key venue for national-level winter sporting events.
Authorities are also planning to make the facility operational throughout the year, officials added.
