Leh, June 18, 2026: Administrative Secretary, Civil Aviation Department, UT Ladakh, Ms. Nidhi Malik, today chaired a high-level interdepartmental meeting to review and deliberate on a range of critical operational, infrastructure, aviation safety and security concerns raised by Air Force Station Leh. The issues had been highlighted in a communication addressed to the Office of the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor on May 20, 2026, necessitating coordinated action by multiple stakeholder departments and agencies.
The meeting brought together senior representatives from Air Force Station Leh, the Civil Aviation Department, Airports Authority, Public Works Department (PWD), Border Roads Organisation (BRO), Power Development Department (PDD), Revenue Department, Urban Development Department, Wildlife Department, and other concerned agencies. The objective was to comprehensively assess matters affecting the safe, secure and efficient functioning of aviation operations at Leh Airport and to identify actionable measures for their timely resolution.
At the outset, officials from the Civil Aviation Department presented the agenda and briefed participants on the operational and infrastructure-related concerns highlighted by the Air Force authorities. Representatives from Air Force Station Leh subsequently provided detailed insights into key issues concerning the proposed second runway, obstacle limitation requirements, airspace safety considerations, terrain-related constraints, and the need to address physical obstructions that could adversely impact flight operations.
Extensive discussions were held on the presence of hills, elevated terrain features and other structures located within areas of operational significance. Air Force officials emphasized that these factors require careful scientific assessment to ensure compliance with prescribed aviation safety standards and to accommodate both current and future operational requirements.
Recognizing the importance of the matter, Ms. Malik directed all concerned departments, including the BRO, Revenue Department and relevant technical agencies, to undertake a joint survey of the identified locations. She instructed them to submit a comprehensive report containing technical assessments and recommendations to facilitate informed decision-making and further action.
The meeting also examined security concerns arising from unauthorized photography and videography within and around sensitive airport areas.
Air Force authorities expressed serious concern over the increasing circulation of photographs and videos depicting operational zones on various social media platforms, noting that such activities could compromise security and operational confidentiality. In response, the Administrative Secretary directed the concerned agencies to strengthen enforcement of existing regulations, undertake public awareness initiatives regarding restricted areas, and formulate appropriate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at preventing unauthorized photography and videography in sensitive locations.
Another important issue discussed during the meeting was the installation of CCTV cameras and other surveillance infrastructure in areas overlooking sensitive Air Force establishments. Participants deliberated on the need to balance public safety and monitoring requirements with national security considerations. It was decided that all concerned departments and implementing agencies would ensure that any surveillance infrastructure is installed strictly in accordance with prescribed security guidelines and only after obtaining the necessary clearances from competent authorities.
The meeting further reviewed a number of infrastructure development projects in areas surrounding the airport, including road widening works, construction of culverts, strengthening of village roads and the improvement of critical approach routes. Discussions focused on ensuring that developmental activities proceed in a manner that does not compromise aviation safety requirements while also facilitating the smooth movement of essential services, local residents and emergency response vehicles. Ms. Malik directed the executing agencies to adhere to approved project timelines and maintain close coordination with Air Force authorities throughout the implementation process to ensure compliance with safety norms.
Issues related to unauthorized constructions, building permissions, land-use regulation around airport zones and compliance with obstacle limitation norms also came under detailed review. The Administrative Secretary underscored the importance of strict adherence to the regulatory framework governing construction activities in areas falling within designated aviation safety zones. She directed the concerned departments to strengthen monitoring mechanisms, enhance enforcement measures and ensure that all future development activities conform to prescribed aviation safety standards.
The status of several pending infrastructure and utility-related matters affecting aviation operations was also reviewed comprehensively. These included issues pertaining to transmission towers, drainage channels, wildlife clearances and various land-related concerns.
Stressing the need for coordinated and time-bound action, Ms. Malik instructed all stakeholder departments to work in close collaboration, expedite the resolution of pending matters and ensure effective interdepartmental coordination to address challenges impacting aviation operations.
Concluding the meeting, the Administrative Secretary reiterated the administration’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of aviation safety, operational efficiency and security at Leh Airport. She emphasized that timely coordination among all concerned departments and agencies would be essential to addressing the identified challenges and supporting the long-term development and safe functioning of aviation infrastructure in the region.
