The 2.10 km Mahey Tokpo-Raldho Irrigation Canal, a key infrastructure project, was launched in 2022-23, officials said, adding that only 1,250 meters of work had been completed by March 2026 and the project was “stalled” due to “administrative issues”. Photo credit: X@lg_ladakh
Ladakh Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Thursday (May 14, 2026) inaugurated a high-altitude irrigation canal in the Changthang region, built at an altitude of over 14,000 feet, terming it a major step to ensure water security in the region.
During his first-ever visit to Changthang, the LG also started a plantation of 15,000 trees in the surrounding areas along with villagers, aimed at soil conservation, slope stabilization and environmental sustainability, officials said.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Saxena said that the project would greatly benefit the people of Changthang by enhancing irrigation infrastructure, improving agricultural productivity and supporting the livelihood of farmers and pastoralist communities.
“The Mahey irrigation canal along with the pulp plantation will immensely benefit the people of Changthang, where agriculture and related activities are heavily dependent on seasonal melting of glaciers and traditional irrigation systems,” he said.
The 2.10 km Mahey Tokpo-Raldho Irrigation Canal, a key infrastructure project, was launched in 2022-23, officials said, adding that only 1,250 meters of work had been completed by March 2026 and the project was “stalled” due to “administrative issues”. After a review after taking over the charges on March 13, the LG directed officials to expedite the work and complete it in a time-bound manner. Subsequently, the remaining 850 meters of the structure was completed in two months with a width of two feet and a depth of two feet, they said.
The canal, which draws water from Lake Yaya, will provide reliable irrigation facilities for nearly 100 acres of farmland in the Mahey area, greatly improving irrigation support in a region where farmers have traditionally depended on seasonal glacier melt and erratic water supply, they added.
Appreciating the Irrigation and Flood Control Department for executing the project in an extremely difficult terrain, the LG said, “It is never easy to execute a project of such importance in such challenging conditions. The officials have done a commendable job with dedication and commitment.” The channel was built 200 feet above the road along the mountainous terrain using PCC lining and breast walls to ensure long-term stability, protection and resistance under extreme weather conditions.
Published – 15 May 2026 07:31 IST
