Indian army and Ladakh administration launch waste Cleanup and conservation projects

The Indian army and the Border Roads Organisation cleared 7 to 8 tonnes of plastic waste from the Ghost Temple shrine on the Manali-Leh Highway in Ladakh.

This action is part of a broader effort to protect the high-altitude desert, where tourists often leave behind plastic containers, foil wrappers, and expanded polystyrene. The military also provides administrative support to non-government organisations to help manage waste and protect the environment.

The Northern Command launched Operation Cleanup to remove decades of metal scrap from forward areas. Because these areas were inaccessible by road in 1948, the army previously relied on airdrops for supplies, leading to piles of discarded metal containers. New road connectivity now allows the army to use reverse logistics, where trucks carrying supplies to the border carry the scrap metal back to bases for disposal. This process costs the government nothing and generates revenue through scrap metal sales.

To address the challenges of planting trees in a hyper-arid climate, the army supports the Forest Department and non-government organisations. Soldiers use discarded tyres and tubes to trap moisture and help saplings survive the short, dry summers. Additionally, the army signed a memorandum of understanding with the Ladakh administration in March to protect local wildlife, including the snow leopard and black-necked crane. The Ladakh administration hired 100 former soldiers to join its Environment Protection Force.

This group aims to promote cleanliness, biodiversity conservation, and responsible tourism. The administration views these former soldiers as ambassadors who can use their discipline and experience to protect the fragile ecosystem of the region.