Illegal Extraction of Groundwater Addressed in Leh

Leh, March 14 2025, The Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Leh, Santosh Sukhdeve, held a meeting with concerned departments to review the measures against illegal groundwater extraction, which have been in effect since December 1, 2024.

According to departmental reports, around 40 to 50 borewell machines are operational in the Leh district. The DC had earlier declared that using borewells without prior approval in restricted areas such as Gonpa Gangles, Sankar,
Yourtong, Leh, Skara, Choglamsar, Saboo, Spituk, Phay, and Phyang would be considered illegal. These restrictions apply to all sectors, including commercial, government, and defense.

During the meeting, the DC reiterated the penalties for violations, including the seizure of machines, fines, and cancellation of registrations. He also stressed that all borewell machines must be equipped with GPS tracking systems to monitor their movement, with the installation deadline set for the end of March 2025.

He further instructed that any emergency or essential borewell use must be approved by the DC, with proper justification. Owners of multiple machines are also required to register their equipment with the relevant departments to ensure compliance.

These measures aim to regulate groundwater extraction and promote its sustainable use in the Leh district.