Protests Erupt in Gilgit Baltistan Over Severe Power Outages

Residents of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit Baltistan are protesting against ongoing power outages that have left the region without electricity for several days. Women have joined the protests, blocking the Ghazar Highway to express their frustration. Protestors are chanting slogans against the local Electricity Department, accusing it of neglecting their power needs. The outages have severely disrupted daily life, affecting both homes and businesses.

One resident expressed his grief, stating, "Gilgit has not received electricity for the past five days. We have educated and qualified people living here. They prioritize electricity for special lines, while we are left in the dark. This is exactly what is happening in Karachi with their load-shedding problems. We have a right to electricity, and this negligence must stop."

The power crisis has sparked widespread anger, with accusations of favoritism and poor management directed at the Electricity Department. Local leaders have joined the protests, demanding immediate action to resolve the power supply issues. Protesters have vowed to continue until the government addresses the problem.

Skardu TV reported that the region is facing a severe electricity shortage, with residents receiving only 2-3 hours of power daily. The high cost of LPG gas connections forces many to burn harmful materials for warmth, leading to severe air pollution.