IT is quite strange that a region like Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), capable of generating 43,000MW of power, is in complete dark-ness owing to loadshedding lasting 22 hours a day. Successive governments’ disregard for the energy sector has brought the area to the brink of almost zero access to electricity supply.

The increase in population in urban areas has further shaken the energy sector to the core, as the two main cities, Skardu and Gilgit, have no further cap-acity to cater to them. The energy demand in GB stands at 200-250MW, while the installed capacity in the region is only 130MW. The available power in the region stands at 100MW in summer and 60MW in winter becasue of the rather harsh weather conditions.

This leads to the provision of electricity only at night in summer, while in winter, the area remains in blanket darkness. Due to its disconnectedness from the national grid, the area has no alternative way and makes do with indigenous power generation. But, owing to limited finance, the region is hardly in a position to construct new powerhouses.

Therefore, the federal government must take immediate action to address the electricity issue in the region. After all, a region that holds great importance due to its breathtaking tourist spots and other reasons cannot be overlooked.

Sajjad Hussain
Skardu

Published in Dawn, January 31st, 2025