Leh, August 12:In a landmark step towards preserving the lifeline of Ladakh, the LAHDC, Leh, under the leadership of Hon’ble Chairman/CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson, today launched the Singe Tsangspo Tsangde Lasgul – Mission Indus Clean-Up at Sindhu Ghat. Joining the H’CEC at the forefront were Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal, Executive Councillors Ghulam Mehdi, Shri Tashi Namgyal Yakzee, and Shri Stanzin Chosphel, alongside Deputy Commissioner/CEO LAHDC Leh Romil Singh Donk, Col. A.K. Upadhayaya, Adm Comdt, Station HQ Leh, and DIG K.S. Kas, ITBP, marking a rare moment of united resolve for Ladakh’s environment.The event brought together a gathering of councillors, including Thiksay Councillor Stanzin Chosfail and Nominated Sanga Councillor Ven. Konchok Tsepal, heads of religious and social organisations, presidents of trade and tourism bodies, senior officers from armed forces, paramilitary, and civil administration. Among those present were LGA President Ven. Dorje Stanzin, LBA Women’s Wing President Kunzes Dolma, Anjuman Moin-ul-Islam Vice President Adv. Mohd Ramzan, Women’s Wing President Ayesha Malo, Anjuman Imamia Women’s Wing President Nasreen Maryam, Christian Association President Sonam Parvez, and BJP State President Tashi Gyalson Khachu, along with secretaries of the UT Administration, SSP Leh Shruti Arora, ASP Rigzin Sangdup, and presidents of ALTOA, ALGHA, LTTA, ALTA, Merchant Association, and the Bikers Association.The programme began with a solemn pledge in both English and Bhoti, emphasising the collective duty to safeguard the Indus River. In his address, DC Romil Singh Donk called the Indus “the soul of India,” reminding the gathering of its role in nourishing civilisation for thousands of years. “This is our payback time and our responsibility is to keep it clean. This must be an everyday mission, not a one-day event,” he urged.Army representative Col. A.K. Upadhayaya reflected on the five elements of ancient Indian wisdom, of which water is one, and called for sustained action. DIG K.S. Kas of ITBP echoed the same sentiment, commending the H’CEC’s vision and affirming ITBP’s commitment to the mission. Worthy Chief Secretary Dr. Pawan Kotwal spoke about the profound legacy of the Indus Valley Civilisation, highlighting how the name “India” itself is derived from the ancient Sindhu (Indus) River. He emphasized the sacredness of the river and its vital place in our history and culture. Dr. Kotwal also drew attention to pressing issues such as poultry waste management, stressing the need for careful handling to protect the river’s health. He congratulated the Hon’ble CEC for initiating this visionary mission and urged everyone to maintain strong momentum in this important effort.The launch also featured the inauguration of garbage collection vehicles donated under the CSR initiatives of CII Foundation and HDFC Bank Parivartan, and a thought-provoking skit by students of the University of Ladakh highlighting the dangers of indiscriminate waste dumping.In his keynote, CEC Adv. Tashi Gyalson stressed that the mission’s success depends on both individual responsibility and collective effort. “We remain open to thoughtful suggestions that will strengthen this initiative. However, it is important to approach these efforts with respect and a constructive spirit, as this mission is a foundation on which we will build further progress,” he said, while extending special thanks to the ITBP for their dedicated involvement.The CEC also acknowledged the strong support of the worthy Chief Secretary, who is committed to enforcing strict regulations to ensure lasting results.He expressed gratitude to CII and HDFC Parivartan for donating two garbage collection vehicles, which will greatly aid the clean-up drive.Urging urgency, the CEC called on everyone to honor the pledge made today.He concluded with a firm appeal for unity and cooperation, confident that with shared determination, restoring the Indus is well within reach.Following the ceremonial launch, dignitaries and participants moved to the riverbanks to lead the cleaning efforts.As part of the campaign, similar cleanliness drives will be organised simultaneously in every Subdivision of Leh district under the leadership of the respective SDMs and Goba, ensuring that the spirit of Singe Tsangspo Tsangde Lasgul resonates at the grassroots level.Each subdivision showed remarkable enthusiasm and active involvement in the mission. Khaltsi led with strong community engagement, while Nubra’s residents demonstrated great commitment to maintaining cleanliness. Likir’s participation was notable for its organised efforts, and Nyoma contributed with consistent support and coordination. Kharu and Durbuk also stood out, with both subdivisions mobilising volunteers and resources effectively. Together, all five subdivisions played a vital role in making the initiative a success through their proactive and united participation.As the day draws to a close, we are reminded that the Indus River is much more than a natural resource, it is a sacred thread that binds our history, culture, and future. The overwhelming participation across all subdivisions reflects the shared commitment of our people to honor and protect this lifeline. Yet, this gathering is just the beginning. We must sustain this momentum with continued and consistent effort. Together, let us pledge to carry this mission forward with the same passion and unity we have witnessed today.
Leh unites for the Indus: Singe Tsangspo Tsangde Lasgul / Mission Indus clean-up launched
