Leh, Aug 28: Secretary (RD, IT, Transport, Disaster Management & MD, SIDCO) UT Ladakh, Amit Sharma embarked on an official four-days’ tour to the remote border areas of district Leh, Union Territory of Ladakh, aiming to assess and bolster the region’s developmental efforts with a ‘whole of Government approach’.
Over his extensive four-day visit, Secretary Amit Sharma delved deep into the hearts of these border communities, engaging directly with local leaders and local communities while monitoring the progress of vital infrastructure and development schemes.
On the first day of his tour, Secretary Amit Sharma visited the village of Hunder and its surrounding areas and conducted a thorough review of ongoing initiatives under the Rural Development Department.
Accompanied by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) of Nubra and the Block Development Officers (BDOs) of Diskit and Panamik, he carefully examined the implementation of various schemes designed to uplift these remote communities.
On the second day, Secretary Amit Sharma travelled to the far-flung border village – Thang, at zero point of LoC (Pakistan). Here, he was welcomed by Executive Councillor Turtuk Shri Ghulam Mehdi and he interacted with the Lambardars (village heads) of Skampuk, Terchey, Skuru, Bodgang, Turtuk, and Tyakshi Pachathang. These interactions were focused on understanding the unique challenges faced by these border villages and exploring ways to enhance the effectiveness of ongoing projects. His visit underscored the UT Administration’s commitment towards ensuring that even the most remote and isolated communities benefit from development initiatives, reinforcing the importance of inclusive growth in the region.
In Thois, Secretary Amit Sharma held a detailed meeting with CAO of Air Force regarding initiation of Commercial Operations of Airport here at the earliest for the convenience of public in Nubra region, which is one of the top priority vision of UT Adminiatration led by Hon’ble LG Brig (Retd) Dr B.D Mishra and his team.
On the third day of his tour, Amit Sharma IAS visited several strategically important areas, including the villages of Mann, Merak and Chushul along with the Block Development Officer of Durbuk Block. During his visit, he made it a priority to engage directly with the local communities, taking the time to listen to their grievances, understanding the challenges they are facing and gather first-hand insights into the issues that need immediate attention.
In Mann village, the residents presented several pressing concerns. One of the primary issues they highlighted was the lack of reliable tele-network connectivity, which has been severely hindering their ability to communicate, access information, and utilize essential services. The villagers also expressed deep concerns over the inadequate water supply, which has been affecting their daily lives and agricultural activities alongwith request for upgradation of the local sub-center into a Primary Health Center (PHC).
Responding to the various concerns raised by the villagers, Amit Sharma assured them that he would take swift and decisive action to address their issues. He promised to expedite the activation of a mobile network tower in the area to resolve the connectivity problems that have long plagued the village. He committed towards constructing culverts or small bridge-like structures at seven different locations around Pangong / Mann.
Understanding the importance of tourism to the local economy, Secretary Amit Sharma pledged to install the requisite Public Information Board at the Pangong Tso (lake) village entrance. He also proposed the introduction of local tourist guides who could provide valuable insights into the area’s history and culture, ensuring that visitors have a more enriching experience.
During the penultimate day of his visit, Secretary Amit Sharma also addressed the challenges faced by the residents of Thakrung Valley and Chushul village – the last village at LoC (China). The local community has been making commendable efforts to convert barren land into a lush, green valley, but they have encountered significant irrigation problems that threaten the success of their project. Recognizing the importance of these efforts for both the environment and the local economy, Amit assured the residents that their irrigation issues would be resolved. He pledged to provide the necessary support to ensure that the valley’s transformation continues, ultimately contributing to the region’s ecological and economic developmet.
Secretary Amit Sharma’s visit to Mann, Merak, and Chushul was marked by a genuine commitment to addressing the needs of the local communities. The Secretary promised improved infrastructure, better healthcare, enhanced tourism facilities, and support local agricultural initiatives, this reflecting a comprehensive approach of the UT Administration towards regional development, aiming to create lasting positive impacts for the people living near the border areas.
Secretary Amit Sharma wrapped-up his tour with a visit to the Rezang-La War Memorial, Ahir Dham, where he paid heartfelt tributes to the courageous martyrs who fought valiantly in the historic Battle of Rezang-La.
