newspop
4 Crore Litres of Water! India Strengthens Indus Water Infrastructure in Ladakh
Leh, Ladakh : India has taken a significant step towards strengthening water security and irrigation infrastructure in the strategically important Ladakh region with the construction of its first rock check dam on the Indus River at Upshi in Leh. Built using large natural boulders instead of cement, the innovative structure has reportedly raised the river’s water level by around 10 feet, offering much-needed relief to farmers who have long struggled with irrigation due to the river flowing deep within a gorge.
The newly constructed check dam is capable of storing nearly 4 crore litres of water, which can be channelled through the Igu-Phey irrigation canal to agricultural fields in water-stressed villages. The project is particularly important during the spring sowing season, when farmers often face severe water shortages and pumping water from the deep river channel becomes difficult. Beyond supporting agriculture and local livelihoods, the project also carries strategic significance, as India seeks to strengthen its water-use infrastructure in border areas amid the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.
The Ladakh administration has reportedly proposed 36 additional check-dam projects to the Ministry of Jal Shakti, including seven Himalayan rock check dams in Leh and 29 check dams or weirs in Kargil, with the combined estimated cost exceeding ₹56 crore. The initiative is expected to strengthen irrigation, improve water availability and enhance water security across the high-altitude border region.
