Power crisis in PoJK sparks growing frustration among residents
Power Crisis Sparks Unrest in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir
Residents in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) are facing severe power shortages, leading to social unrest and demands for better governance. The region's electricity production is insufficient, with inefficiencies and corruption in projects like the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project worsening the situation.
Local Concerns
A local resident, Kiyani, highlighted the critical state of power supply, noting that the region needs at least 3100 kilowatts to meet demand, but current generation is only 1200 to 1400 kilowatts. The power station, established in 1995, has seen no major maintenance, leading to continuous power cuts, especially as winter sets in.
Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project Issues
The Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project, inaugurated in 2018, was expected to alleviate the power crisis but has faced technical failures and corruption, leaving it stalled. Kiyani called for a government investigation into the project's mismanagement and accountability for those responsible.
Broader Challenges
In addition to energy issues, PoJK residents face healthcare challenges, high unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure, fostering a sense of neglect. There are increasing calls for improved governance, transparency, and resource distribution to enhance living conditions.
Doubts Revealed
Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir
This is a region that is part of the larger area of Jammu and Kashmir, which is claimed by both India and Pakistan. It is currently administered by Pakistan.
Power shortages
This means there is not enough electricity for everyone to use. People might experience blackouts or have electricity for only a few hours a day.
Social unrest
This happens when people in a community are unhappy and start to protest or complain loudly about their problems, like not having enough electricity.
Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Project
This is a big project meant to produce electricity using water from the Neelum and Jhelum rivers. However, it has not been working well, which is part of the reason for the power shortages.
Corruption
This is when people in charge do dishonest things for their own benefit, like taking money meant for public projects, which can make problems like power shortages worse.
Kiyani
Kiyani is a local resident from the region who is speaking out about the problems with electricity and other issues in the area.
Governance
This refers to how a place is managed or run by its leaders. Good governance means leaders are doing a good job taking care of the people's needs.
Infrastructure
This includes basic facilities and systems like roads, bridges, and power supplies that are needed for a place to function well.
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