Srinagar:For the first time after Independence, the far off Gurez Valley in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bandipora district was successfully connected to the electricity grid on Sunday.
The 30,000 population of the frontier region having high strategic importance for being close to the Line of Control (LoC) relied on diesel generator sets for the electricity.
The region now has access to a reliable source of electricity, an official spokesman said.
On Sunday, the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) made the announcement of the historic development on X.
“KPDCL is thrilled to share that Gurez now enjoys Grid connectivity with the successful charging of the 33kV Line and RSTN Dawar overcoming challenging terrain. This marks a significant milestone as it brings electricity to the only area in Kashmir that relied on DG sets,” the KPDCL said in the post on X.
J&K Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, expressed his joy and stated that this marks a momentous occasion in the history of the region.
The spokesman said the project of connecting Gurez to the electricity grid involved around 180 kilometers of 150 mmsq conductor, 1950 ST Poles, four km of underground cabeling over vast streches passing over Razdhan Pass situated at a height of 12672 ft above sea level having most hostile weather conditions and tough terrain and topography.
“The successful test check underscores the commitment of the Government to reach out to the people of far-flung areas,” he said.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Owais Ahmad said patience and perseverance of people of Gurez throughout the process.
He said the impact that electricity will have on various facets of daily life, including education, healthcare, and economic activities.
The DC said 1500 consumers will be benefited in the first phase and the rest of the villages will be connected in a phased manner.
“The electrification of Gurez Valley is not just about providing power but about empowering the local communities, fostering economic growth, and enhancing the overall quality of life,” he said.
As the lights illuminate Gurez , it symbolizes not just the arrival of electricity but the dawn of a new era for the residents, full of possibilities and opportunities.
