Ladakh’s high-altitude Changthang region gets irrigation canal at 14,000 feet
Stating that the 2.10-kilometer Mahey Tokpo-Raldho irrigation canal, an important infrastructure project, was started in 2022-23, officials said that only 1,250 meters of work was completed by March 2026 and that the project was “stopped” due to “administrative problems”. Photo Credit: X@lg_ladakh
Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Thursday (May 14, 2026) inaugurated the high-altitude irrigation canal constructed at an altitude of over 14,000 feet in Changthang district and termed it as a major step towards ensuring water security in the region.
The LG, during his first visit to Changthang, along with the villagers, launched a campaign to plant 15,000 trees in the surrounding areas for soil conservation, slope stabilization and ecological sustainability, officials said.
Speaking at the event, Mr Saxena said the project will greatly benefit the people of Changthang by strengthening irrigation infrastructure, increasing agricultural productivity and supporting the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities.
“The Mahey irrigation canal, together with mass planting efforts, will greatly benefit the people of Changthang, where agriculture and allied activities are largely dependent on seasonal glacier melt and traditional irrigation systems,” he said.
Stating that the 2.10-kilometer Mahey Tokpo-Raldho irrigation canal, an important infrastructure project, was started in 2022-23, officials said that only 1,250 meters of work was completed by March 2026 and that the project was “stopped” due to “administrative problems”. Following the review after taking over on March 13, the LG instructed the officials to expedite the work and complete it within a certain period of time. It was later stated that the remaining construction, with a width of 850 meters and a depth of two meters, was completed in two months.
He added that the canal, which draws water from Yaya Lake, will provide a reliable irrigation facility for about 100 acres of agricultural land in the Mahey district and will significantly increase irrigation support in the region, where farmers have traditionally depended on seasonal glacier melt and erratic water supply.
Praising the Irrigation and Flood Control Department for carrying out the project in extremely difficult terrain conditions, LG said, “It is never easy to implement such an important project in such difficult conditions. The authorities did a commendable job with dedication and determination.” The channel was constructed 60 meters above the road through mountainous terrain using PCC cladding and breastwall works to ensure long-term stability, protection and durability in extreme weather conditions.
It was published – 15 May 2026 07:31 IST
