Leh, April 24: In a major step towards transforming Leh into a cleaner, greener, and more tourist-friendly city, the Union Territory administration has launched a large-scale beautification and cleanliness drive across the Leh municipal area under the directions of Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena. The initiative aims to improve urban aesthetics, sanitation, and overall visitor experience while strengthening Leh’s identity as a world-class tourist destination.
The comprehensive drive focuses on removing accumulated dust, debris, and construction and demolition waste lying along roadsides and public spaces across major parts of the city. Government agencies have begun large-scale operations in mission mode, targeting prominent locations such as Lok Niwas, the Secretariat, Leh Main Market, Jivetsal, and nearby adjoining areas. Officials said the effort is designed to ensure cleaner surroundings and better civic infrastructure for both residents and tourists.
Alongside the cleanliness campaign, preparatory work for an extensive plantation drive is also underway. Pits are being dug across key stretches to increase green cover and improve the visual appeal of the municipal area. The plantation initiative is expected to contribute to environmental sustainability while adding to the city’s beauty and improving its urban landscape.
The beautification campaign follows the Lieutenant Governor’s visit to Leh Market and Old Leh Town on March 15, during which he reviewed sanitation conditions, infrastructure concerns, and urban management issues. During the inspection, he issued clear directions for a massive and sustained cleanliness effort and stressed the importance of maintaining public spaces in a well-organized manner.
Officials said the administration is working with a long-term vision to position Leh among the cleanest and most organized tourist cities in the country. The focus is not only on sanitation but also on improving roadsides, enhancing public convenience, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors from India and abroad.
LG Vinai Kumar Saxena, who is personally monitoring the progress of the work, expressed satisfaction over the coordinated efforts of the concerned departments. He appreciated the sustained work being carried out by government agencies and said such determined action would significantly contribute to creating a clean, well-managed, and visitor-friendly urban environment in Leh.
The initiative also aligns with Ladakh’s broader tourism development strategy, where improving civic infrastructure and promoting sustainable urban management are being prioritized. With the tourist season approaching and major events lined up in the region, the administration aims to ensure that Leh presents a cleaner and more attractive image to visitors.
The beautification drive is being seen as an important urban transformation step that combines cleanliness, greenery, and better planning to strengthen Leh’s reputation as one of India’s most unique and sought-after travel destinations.
