Clean energy initiative to make Ladakh a Model UT across country: LG Kavinder

Inaugurates 60kW Geothermal-based space heating system at PHC Thiskey

Highlights project’s role in advancing modern & sustainable energy in health centres

Acknowledges contribution of medical staff in challenging region like Ladakh

Leh, December 18: The Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Kavinder Gupta, today inaugurated the 60kW Geothermal-based Space Heating System at Primary Health Centre (PHC) Thiksay. Constructed as a pilot project at a cost of Rs 80 lakh by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), the system provides eco-friendly space heating without polluting the environment.

The project was conceptualised following a visit by the Ambassador from Switzerland to Ladakh, who proposed establishing such a sustainable initiative on a pilot basis. This innovative solution demonstrates the feasibility of modern, green technologies in remote, harsh-climate regions like Ladakh, paving the way for wider adoption of sustainable energy across the Union Territory (UT).

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Kavinder Gupta highlighted the project’s role in advancing modern and sustainable energy in health centres. He emphasised that the inauguration of the Geo-Thermal Heating System at PHC Thiksay is not just a technical initiative but a major step towards using modern and sustainable energy in health centres in Ladakh. “This project shows that even in remote and harsh climate areas like Ladakh, we can implement innovative and eco-friendly solutions,” he said.

The Lt Governor highlighted his recent visits to high-altitude villages, underscoring the critical need for natural, safe environments in health centres amid harsh weather. Aligning with Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision for a Green and Sustainable India, the Lt Governor stressed that this initiative positions Ladakh as a model UT for clean energy self-reliance.

Shri Kavinder Gupta detailed ongoing enhancements to Ladakh’s healthcare infrastructure, including two District Hospitals, two District Tuberculosis Centres, five Community Health Centres, two Ayushman Arogya Mandir Urban PHCs, 32 Primary Health Centres, and 288 Ayushman Arogya Mandir Sub Health Centres. He highlighted that the administration allocates 8.76% of its budget to health—exceeding the recommended 8% under National Health Policy—while schemes like Universal Health Care and Ayushman Bharat PMJAY ensure high-quality care and insurance for all citizens. A new Medical College has been sanctioned, with Sub-District Hospitals and Community Health Centres being strengthened to reduce referral loads on district hospitals.

The Lt Governor specially praised doctors, nurses, and healthcare staff for their tireless service in remote, high-altitude areas.

Concluding, the Lt Governor affirmed Ladakh’s commitment to continuously striving for sustainable development, clean energy, and rural health improvement. “Today’s inauguration is just the beginning,” he said.

Chief Secretary, Dr Pawan Kotwal, addressed the heating challenges in Ladakh during winters, particularly in government offices and hospitals due to earlier paucity of funds. He noted that budgets have significantly increased post-UT status, enabling projects like this EESL-implemented pilot geothermal system. Dr Kotwal emphasized that geothermal and other renewable energy-based heating will help Ladakh achieve Carbon Neutral region status as envisioned by the Hon’ble Prime Minister.

Director, Health Services, Dr Tashi Thinles, highlighted the difficulties faced by medical staff and patients in winter months due to extreme cold. He stated that the geothermal-based space heating system will reduce dependence on conventional power sources, improving comfort and operational efficiency.

Rahul Dubey from EESL provided details on the pilot project, noting that post-installation, room temperatures in wards remain between 20-25 degrees Celsius, while corridors maintain around 21 degrees. He also highlighted EESL’s other initiatives in Ladakh, including LED lighting in remote areas.

Block Medical Officer, Leh, Dr Nuboo Angchuk, delivered the vote of thanks.

Among those present were CMO Leh Dr Dolma Chuskit, medical staff of PHC Thiksay, EESL officials, Nambardar Thiksay, and villagers from Thiksay.