Ahead of winters in Ladakh, Lieutenant Governor RK Mathur has directed senior officials to complete the stocking process of essential supplies by the end of October, for next seven months. He reviewed the position of preparedness of stocking of essential supplies for the winter with the concerned departments.<br />''<br />''The Lieutenant Governor also emphasised on extensive planning for winter stocking for Zanskar and early completion of stocking, including fuel for vehicles and aviation turbine fuel (ATF) for helicopters for the region. Similarly, he also directed IOCL and HPCL to increase the stocking of fuel in Zanskar.<br />''<br />''He directed the concerned, to issue instructions to make it mandatory for government vehicles to use winter-grade fuel during this time.<br />''<br />''Mr. Mathur directed the Food and Civil Supplies department to maximize the lifting and expedite the tendering for purchase of sugar for Antyodaya beneficiaries. He also suggested that essential commodities manufactured in October may be purchased for maximum validity, especially milk, salt and tomato puree.<br />'' <br />''Similarly, the LG also directed the BSNL and other Telecom operators and Medical department to procure the necessaries for the winter period. He advised NHPC, LREDA and KREDA to complete maintenance works at the earliest to be winter-ready.<br />''<br />''Mr Mathur directed officials from the Mechanical Department to ensure that all internal roads in Ladakh are kept open in the winter and also assist BRO and NHIDCL in keeping Zoji La and Pensi-La open if the need arises. He also advised them to keep hospitals heated during the winter.<br />''<br />''Senior officials from Leh and Kargil and Hill Council representatives present in the review meeting.<br />