India has built its first rock check dam across the Indus River at Upshi in Leh, Ladakh, in a move aimed at addressing water shortages faced by local farming communities.
The dam has been constructed using natural boulders without cement and has raised the river’s water level by nearly 10 feet. This has helped farmers access water for irrigation during the spring sowing season, when water shortages have traditionally affected agriculture.
The project can store around 40 million litres of water and supplies water to dry agricultural fields through the Igoo Phey irrigation canal. For years, farmers struggled to draw water from the Indus because the river flowed through deep gorges at a low level.
The project also carries strategic significance amid tensions between India and Pakistan over the Indus Waters Treaty. With India having placed the treaty in abeyance, the development highlights India’s efforts to strengthen water infrastructure and support communities in its border areas.
The Ladakh administration is planning several more check dams along the Indus River. Work has already started at some locations, while additional projects are being planned.
Ladakh has also submitted a proposal to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti for 36 check dam projects across the Union Territory. The plan includes seven Himalayan Rock Check Dams in Leh and 29 RCC check dams or weirs in Kargil, with an estimated cost of more than ₹56 crore.