Leh, October 28, 2026: Chief Secretary, Union Territory of Ladakh, Ashish Kundra, chaired a review meeting of the Ladakh Power Development Department (LPDD) to assess the progress of power generation, transmission and distribution projects, renewable energy initiatives, and measures to ensure reliable electricity supply across the Union Territory. He emphasised the need for coordinated planning, stronger project monitoring and timely execution, particularly in view of Ladakh’s seasonal variations in power demand and generation.
The meeting reviewed the status of ongoing and proposed hydropower and renewable energy projects, including the Takmachik project, Nimoo-Basgo and other key power generation initiatives in Ladakh. The Chief Secretary emphasised the need to expedite the preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), establish clear implementation timelines and strengthen project monitoring to ensure timely progress and effective utilisation of the Union Territory’s power generation potential.
A key focus of the meeting was the institutional framework governing power generation, distribution and renewable energy development. The Chief Secretary examined the respective roles of the Power Development Department (PDD), Power Development Corporation (PDC), Ladakh Renewable Energy Development Agency (LREDA) and Kargil Renewable Energy Development Agency (KREDA). He emphasised the importance of clearly defined mandates, appropriate staffing structures and accountability mechanisms to improve coordination and ensure effective implementation of projects.
The meeting also assessed the adequacy of transmission and power evacuation infrastructure in relation to planned generation capacity. Discussions covered hydropower development in Zanskar and other areas, transmission works at Phey and Zanskar, and the evacuation of power from projects in Dha and Hanu. The Chief Secretary stressed that generation projects must be supported by adequate transmission capacity to ensure optimal utilisation of available electricity.
Emphasising the need for year-round energy security, the Chief Secretary called for a comprehensive assessment of electricity demand and availability during summer and winter. The assessment is to account for seasonal hydropower generation, solar power availability, electricity procurement from external sources, power purchase agreements and the associated financial implications. He stressed the importance of establishing a clear picture of generation, consumption, procurement and revenue to support informed planning and efficient power management.
The proposed establishment of a State Load Despatch Centre (SLDC) was also discussed, including the identification of a suitable location, institutional arrangements and the availability of qualified technical personnel. The Chief Secretary underscored the importance of strengthening grid management and monitoring systems to improve coordination, optimise power flows and enhance operational efficiency.
The meeting further reviewed the progress of projects under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), particularly the Leh, Kargil and Changthang packages, along with transmission connectivity in Nubra, Turtuk and Zanskar. The Chief Secretary sought updates on physical progress, contractor performance and implementation timelines, stressing the need to address delays and ensure completion of works within stipulated schedules. The status of pending transmission towers and the proposed Nubra–Khardung La transmission line was also discussed.
The implementation of the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana was reviewed, with discussions focusing on rooftop solar installations, vendor selection, subsidy disbursement, inspections and online monitoring. The Chief Secretary called for streamlined and transparent procedures; timely processing of eligible subsidy claims and effective use of digital platforms to monitor implementation. Progress on renewable energy projects in Zanskar and the status of metering and project execution were also discussed.
The Chief Secretary directed the concerned departments and agencies to strengthen coordination, establish clear project-wise responsibilities and undertake regular monitoring of implementation. He stressed that generation, transmission and distribution infrastructure must be planned in an integrated manner to improve energy security, ensure efficient utilisation of resources and provide reliable electricity to consumers across Ladakh.
The meeting was attended by Secretary, Power Development Department, Shri Himanshu Gupta; Superintending Engineer, Shri Tundup Spalzang; Officer on Special Duty to the Chief Secretary for Special Projects, Shri Moses Kunzang; Executive Engineer, Shri Anwar Hussain; members of RDCL; and other concerned officers.
