Stone dams strengthen water security and the agricultural sector in Ladakh

As part of the initiative along the Sindhu River and its tributaries, five check dams were constructed to improve water retention and create sustainable water supply sources for agricultural needs. Construction began on May 27 with a water discharge of about 20 cusecs and was completed in four months. All five structures were built without using cement, concrete, and steel — exclusively from local boulders collected in the riverbeds. During the peak summer months, the water runoff exceeded 200 cusecs, creating a severe load on the structures, while with the onset of winter, the flow sharply decreased to approximately 30 cusecs.

An engineering inspection showed that four out of five structures successfully withstood the summer water pressure. Minor damage was recorded only at the first structure near Upshi close to Leh, and specialists are currently repairing it. In addition, the inspection revealed deposits of high-quality washed sand upstream, which further strengthened the stability of the dams. Lieutenant Governor Vinay Kumar Saxena noted that this experience and the technical data obtained during the pilot project will help improve the design and implementation of similar initiatives in the future.

Efficient use and retention of water resources are crucial for Ladakh's agriculture, where cold and arid conditions limit farming. The project aims to strengthen water security, promote agricultural sustainability, and enhance climate resilience in the union territory with the support of local communities.