Ladakh, Sep 19 (NVI): Five eco-friendly rock check dams constructed along the Sindhu River and its tributaries in Ladakh have successfully withstood water flow of more than 200 cusecs during peak summer, officials said.
The check dams were constructed over the past four months as part of an initiative aimed at improving water security and supporting agricultural sustainability in the Union Territory.
The structures were built using locally sourced boulders from the riverbed without cement, concrete or steel. Work on the project began on May 27 when the river’s water flow was around 20 cusecs.
An inspection team of engineers was recently deputed to assess the stability and strength of the structures and examine any damage caused by high water pressure, officials said.
The inspection found that all five check dams had withstood the high flow, with only the structure at Upshi near Leh reporting a minor breach. The damaged portion is being repaired, they said.
The inspection also found deposits of fine-quality washed sand upstream of the structures, which further contributed to their stability.
Officials said the pilot project would provide technical inputs and experience for improving the design and construction of similar structures in future.
The initiative is aimed at promoting water conservation, agricultural sustainability and climate resilience in Ladakh, they said.—(NVI)
