Leh, Feb 20 :
High-altitude settlements can be broadly categorized into two types- those perched on slopes or hills, such as Shimla and Sikkim, and those in valleys, like Leh and Kargil. While extensive research and policy interventions have addressed the challenges of hill towns—ranging from landslides and water scarcity to waste management—urban planning in the trans-Himalayan region remains underexplored.
Leh and Kargil, situated in an extreme climatic zone with scarce resources and a fragile ecosystem, face distinct urban challenges. Traditional adaptation strategies have sustained communities for centuries, but rapid modernization has introduced new pressures including erratic water supply, inadequate sanitation, a lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, stray dog management issues and diminishing public spaces. Furthermore, many urban planning policies are designed by external agencies with limited understanding of Ladakh’s unique socio-environmental landscape. A well-structured urban planning approach is essential to balance modernization with sustainability. It must anticipate future growth while safeguarding Ladakh’s cultural heritage, traditional wisdom, and ecological integrity. Addressing these challenges holistically is crucial to ensuring that high-altitude settlements remain livable, resilient, and in harmony with their environment.
Understanding the needs of the locals and the need to combat climate change is Konchok Tashi, a town planner with a startup that is dedicated to designing sustainable and resilient settlements rooted in cultural heritage and community well-being. His inspiration to pursue such a career came from his village, he says, “I grew up in Skurbuchan, a village that always fascinated me with its natural yet seemingly planned layout—clustered residential areas, separate agricultural zones governed by traditional bylaws, and a main road lined with large walnut trees dividing the two. This deep sense of organization sparked my interest in human settlements and its dynamics.”
Konchok has pursued his Bachelor’s in Town Planning and Masters or Specialisation on Urban Planning from the School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, where he explored how settlements, the environment, and community behaviors interact. Now, he is the co-founder and Executive Director of Plannable Co. focusing on sustainable and culturally integrated urban solutions for Ladakh and beyond. According to Konchok, “Urban planning is crucial in mitigating and adapting to climate change, especially in fragile high-altitude environments like Ladakh. Rapid urbanization in Leh has strained natural resources, disrupted traditional water systems, and increased vulnerabilities to climate extremes. Thoughtful planning can address these challenges by integrating sustainable solutions.”
His research on the effects of climate change leads us to think about many factors which one might have missed or not thought about because it isn’t talked about much. For instance, transportation is a major issue, with rising vehicle use leading to congestion and pollution. The solution, he says is a well-planned urban mobility system focusing on pedestrian-friendly streets, cycling infrastructure, public transport, and electric vehicles which can reduce emissions and enhance livability. Secondly, energy consumption for heating is another challenge. Ladakh’s harsh winters drive reliance on carbon-intensive methods. Urban planning can promote passive solar heating, improved insulation, and renewable energy adoption, reducing emissions and enhancing energy efficiency. Thirdly, Waste management is critical, as unregulated disposal harms the environment. A structured system focusing on waste segregation, recycling, and incentives for zero-waste practices can minimize pollution and methane emissions.
