The Union Territory of Ladakh is set to complete three major transmission projects by September 2026, connecting strategic regions including Zanskar, Nubra, and the Siachen Base Camp to the national power grid. This initiative, part of the Prime Minister's Development Package (PMDP), aims to provide uninterrupted electricity, reduce reliance on diesel generators, and support the Prime Minister's vision of a carbon-neutral Ladakh.
Key Transmission Projects and Timelines
Two key projects are targeted for completion by September 2026: a 189-km 220 KV transmission line from Drass to Padum, and a 79-km 220 KV transmission line from Phyang to Diskit. Sanctioned at a total cost of Rs 1,925 crore, these projects will provide round-the-clock electricity to remote and strategic locations, including Siachen and Padum, while strengthening power connectivity in border areas.
Current Power Challenges in Ladakh
According to an official spokesperson, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena was briefed on the progress by the Chairman and Managing Director of REC Limited and the Joint Secretary (Transmission), Ministry of Power. The L-G was informed that strategically important areas, including Nubra, Changthang, and Zanskar, are still not connected to the national power grid and rely on limited local generation, resulting in intermittent electricity supply.
Infrastructure Expansion and Substations
The ongoing projects will significantly expand Ladakh's power infrastructure. Four substations will be established in Zanskar to ensure electricity reaches every part of the valley. In Nubra, two substations at Siachen Base Camp and Partapur will be constructed. In Changthang, eight substations are proposed under the 66 KV transmission network, including at Durbuk, Phobrang, Chushul, Mudh-Nyoma, Korzok, Hanle, Koyul, and Chumathang.
Strategic and Developmental Significance
Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena emphasized, "Reliable and uninterrupted electricity is not merely an infrastructure necessity; it is critical for education, healthcare, livelihoods, tourism, digital connectivity and economic growth. Connecting areas such as Nubra and Zanskar to the grid for the first time will mark a historic milestone in Ladakh’s development journey." He added that these projects are of immense strategic and developmental significance and will benefit every household and village through round-the-clock electricity and the opportunities it creates.
Vision for Carbon-Neutral Ladakh
With the completion of these projects, six of Ladakh's seven regions, except Changthang, will be connected to the power grid. This reduces dependence on diesel generators, aligning with the Prime Minister's vision of a carbon-neutral Ladakh. The L-G directed all implementing agencies to maintain close coordination and ensure timely execution so that residents, particularly those in remote border areas, benefit from reliable 24x7 electricity at the earliest.
