Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta has approved sixteen key defence and infrastructure projects across the Karakoram and Changthang wildlife sanctuaries, combining strategic imperatives with some of the strictest ecological safeguards mandated in the Union Territory to date.
The approvals—covering proposals from the Indian Army, the Power Development Department (PDD), and the Border Roads Organisation (BRO)—were granted during the 14th meeting of the State Board for Wildlife. The decision reflects a measured approach that pushes ahead with vital national security infrastructure while prioritising the protection of Ladakh’s fragile high-altitude ecosystem.
Strict Environmental Compliance Made Mandatory
Gupta emphasised that while defence infrastructure is indispensable for Ladakh’s border security, no project would be allowed to compromise the region’s sensitive biodiversity. All sixteen projects must adhere to the recommendations of the Biological Impact Assessment Report, which prescribes detailed mitigation measures to prevent habitat disruption, safeguard wetlands, and protect local flora and fauna.
The Lt Governor reiterated that every construction and operational activity inside these sanctuaries will remain under strict environmental oversight. Departments involved have been instructed to comply with directives issued by the Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment.
SC-Mandated Bird Safety Measures Enforced
Gupta stressed full compliance with the Supreme Court’s directives in the MK Ranjitsinh vs Union of India case. This includes the compulsory installation of:
- Bird-flight diverters
- Cable insulation systems
- Collision-prevention mechanisms on overhead lines
These measures are crucial for safeguarding migratory and resident bird species that navigate Ladakh’s high-altitude wetlands.
Protecting Ladakh’s Vulnerable Ecosystem
Ladakh’s cold desert ecosystem hosts rare and endangered wildlife, including black-necked cranes, snow leopards, and migratory waterbirds. Gupta said development in these frontier regions must go hand-in-hand with conservation to preserve Ladakh’s “natural heritage for future generations.”
Zero-Tolerance Waste Management Protocols
The Lt Governor directed the Army and BRO to set up and maintain scientific waste management systems at all operational sites. This includes segregation, processing, and safe disposal using modern, eco-compliant technologies.
In a strict directive, he ordered a complete ban on dumping leftover food or garbage outside Army or BRO premises, warning that all agencies will operate under continuous environmental monitoring to ensure accountability.
Balancing National Security With Ecological Responsibility
The clearance of the sixteen projects marks a significant milestone in harmonising national defence goals with environmental stewardship. Ladakh’s approach—linking military preparedness with strong ecological safeguards—sets a model for responsible infrastructure development in India’s most sensitive and strategically vital border regions.
