Matho Pond Revived Under Project Him Sarovar
Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena on Friday inaugurated a rejuvenated pond at Matho village in Leh, marking the third water body operationalised under Project Him Sarovar. The flagship initiative aims to ensure long-term water security and agricultural sustainability across Ladakh.
Project Background and Timelines
Project Him Sarovar was launched on April 10. The revival of Matho pond followed the L-G’s visit to Matho village on April 17, when the pond was filled with muck. The Irrigation and Flood Control Department, Leh, implemented the restoration using modern engineering interventions to strengthen and enhance the traditional pond.
Enhanced Capacity and Irrigation Benefits
The pond’s storage capacity has been increased from 15 million litres to 25 million litres, creating an additional storage capacity of nearly 10 million litres. The reservoir will irrigate nearly 150 acres (1,200 kanals) of agricultural land and directly benefit around 90 farming households in Matho village. Water is supplied through diversion from the Matho Nallah, ensuring a reliable and sustainable irrigation source throughout the agricultural season.
Dual Utility: Irrigation and Ice Hockey Rink
A key feature of the revitalised pond is its dual utility. During summer, it serves as a vital irrigation source; in winter, it transforms into an ice hockey rink, providing a dedicated sporting facility for local youth. L-G Saxena stated, “The revitalised Matho pond demonstrated how traditional water resources could be transformed into multi-purpose community assets. While the reservoir would ensure irrigation and strengthen agricultural livelihoods during the summer months, it would serve as an ice hockey rink during winters, encouraging sporting talent among the youth.”
Climate-Resilient Infrastructure
Saxena emphasised that Project Him Sarovar is not merely about creating water bodies but about securing the future of Ladakh’s farmers while building climate-resilient and community-centric infrastructure. The project exemplifies sustainable development in the region.
