Ladakh’s Botanical Garden Project
In eastern Ladakh, the Shyok village is transforming 10 hectares of barren community land into the Union Territory’s first botanical garden. Located on the route to the Galwan Valley, this initiative aims to preserve Ladakh’s unique biodiversity. The project is supported by the Leh Hill Council and is part of the Go Green Go Organic campaign. Completion is expected by 2029.
Project Background and Location
Shyok village lies on the way to the Galwan Valley, an area gaining attention for future war-zone tourism. The barren land here is being converted into a green zone to conserve local flora and fauna. The Leh Hill Council is providing civil works support including land tilling and water reservoir construction. It has allocated one crore rupees for the project.
Key Objectives
The garden aims to restore the ecological balance by conserving traditional fruit trees like apricots and apples. It will also protect medicinal plants and rare high-altitude flora. The project seeks to promote eco-tourism and provide a sustainable livelihood to local communities.
Tourism and Economic Potential
Situated on the Galwan Valley route, the garden is poised to become a major eco-tourism spot. It complements the planned Battle Field Tourism initiative in the region. The project is expected to generate local employment in agriculture, horticulture, and tourism sectors.
Environmental and Social Benefits
The garden will enhance biodiversity and improve soil fertility. It promotes conservation of rare plants and medicinal species. Socially, it encourages community participation and provides training and job opportunities for local youth.
Educational and Research Importance
This botanical garden will serve as a centre for botanical studies. It will attract students, scientists, and researchers interested in Ladakh’s unique ecology. The garden supports research on plant species adapted to high-altitude conditions.
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