Leh, Sept 12: In light of a recent incident of theft, Chairman and Chief Executive Councillor of LAHDC Leh, Advocate Tashi Gyalson on Thursday chaired a meeting regarding security challenges affecting monasteries with a focus on enhancing safety means.
The meeting was attended by Gyalson’s deputy Tsering Angchuk, Executive Councillor for Culture Stanzin Chosphel, ADC Ghulam Mohd, LBA Youth President Jigmet Raftan; tourism official Fesal Iqbal Tantry; Deputy SP (HQ) Regzin Sangdup; lama uchos and chakzot from 16 monasteries.
The meeting focused on enhancing security measures around the monasteries.
Officials discussed various strategies to prevent future incidents, including the installation of improved CCTV cameras and better street lighting. Upgrading to halogen lights will also increase visibility and overall security.
DySP (Hq) Regzin Sangdup stated that the police are committed to catching the thief as it is their duty, and they are confident that the perpetrators will be apprehended soon. He provided a brief update on the situation and mentioned that the current CCTV system requires an upgrade.
During the meeting, it was informed that the tourism management strategies are also being reviewed to regulate tourist entry and exit more effectively and LBA Youth Wing has committed to supporting night time security efforts.
The CEC assured that they will implement a system upgrade for the CCTV network, incorporating advanced motion sensors and alarm features to enhance protection, particularly during night time.
“This upgrade will be carried out in phases, beginning with an assessment and initial installation, followed by a review and subsequent enhancements based on the initial results. The possibility of employing private security personnel, under specific conditions, was also considered as a means to further safeguard these sites,” an official spokesperson said.
Additionally, Gyalson stated that the council is dedicated to implementing these upgrades.
A detailed survey will be conducted to determine the precise requirements for CCTV and other security systems, he said and assured that the authorities are committed to enhancing the safety and security of the monasteries and further encouraged all local communities and monastery authorities to stay vigilant.