By - Stanzin Odsal - Urban Planner
Wastewater management in the Himalayas
Leh, nestled in the Trans-Himalayan region, presents a distinctive set of challenges due to its cold desert climate and extreme weather conditions. With temperatures ranging from -24°C in winter to 35°C in summer, water resources primarily rely on melted snow forming rivulets. The average annual precipitation is minimal, making water scarcity a significant concern. The undulating topography and extreme climate pose challenges to sanitation services.
Population and Demographics
Leh, as the joint capital and municipal committee of Ladakh, has a population of 34,798 (2021), with a density of 3,374 people per sqkm. The influx of tourists and migrant workers, especially in summers, significantly impacts the population dynamics. The net residential density is high at 13,500 persons per sqkm.
Census Year | Locals | Tourists | Migrants | Total Population | Growth Rate |
1971 | 5,519 | - | - | 5,519 | 0.5 |
1981 | 8,718 | 389 | - | 9,107 | 0.7 |
1991 | 9,897 | 252 | - | 10,149 | 0.1 |
2001 | 28,639 | 547 | - | 29,186 | 1.9 |
2011 | 30,870 | 4,986 | 43,000 | 78,856 | 1.7 |
2021 | 34,798 | 9,241 | 50,000 | 94,433 | 0.2 |
Existing Sanitation Condition
Sanitation Systems Overview:
Offsite Sanitation Services: The centralized sewerage system, currently under construction, poses challenges for efficient wastewater disposal.
Onsite Sanitation System (OSS): Leh predominantly relies on lined pits with semi-permeable walls, posing a risk of groundwater pollution. Fully lined tanks, prevalent in hotels and guesthouses, ensure proper containment.
Emptying and Transportation:
The Municipal Committee Leh operates desludging tankers for fecal sludge removal. Vacuum tankers transport emptied fecal sludge to the Fecal Sludge Treatment Plant (FSTP).
Treatment/Disposal and Groundwater Risk:
The 12 KLD capacity FSTP employs anaerobic processes for treating solids and liquids. However, winter temperatures halt operations, emphasizing the need for adaptable solutions and there are concerns about groundwater contamination.
Implications and Future Endeavors
Only 31% of wastewater undergoes safe treatment/disposal, highlighting a critical need for improvement. The risks to groundwater, especially from lined pits with semi-permeable walls and open bottoms, underscore the importance of preventive measures. Future endeavors should focus on completing the sewerage system, addressing challenges in desludging services, and enhancing the FSTP's functionality throughout the year.
Conclusion
Leh's unique cultural practices, extreme climate, and increasing population pose challenges for sustainable sanitation. While efforts are underway to address these issues, a comprehensive approach considering local practices, infrastructure development, and environmental impact is crucial. The article sheds light on the complexities of sanitation in Leh and the ongoing initiatives to achieve a sustainable and culturally sensitive solution.
By understanding the current sanitation landscape, stakeholders can collaboratively work towards innovative solutions that respect Leh's heritage and ensure the well-being of its residents and the environment.
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