Harbandas, a community nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Gilgit-Baltistan, recently became the focal point of unrest as locals took to the streets in protest against prolonged power outages. With temperatures soaring to nearly 40 degrees Celsius, frustration reached a boiling point among residents who have endured frequent disruptions to their electricity supply.
According to reports from local media outlet Pamir Times, the protest escalated when demonstrators hurled stones at the residence of the Executive Engineer, causing property damage. The incident underscored the mounting anger over what locals describe as unbearable living conditions exacerbated by the unreliable power grid.
Gilgit-Baltistan, a region under Pakistan’s control but claimed by India as well, has long grappled with infrastructure challenges, and the issue of electricity supply remains a persistent concern. Frequent power cuts not only disrupt daily life but also hinder economic activities, forcing businesses to rely on costly alternatives like generators, which inflate operational expenses.
Compounding the issue, residents often receive inflated electricity bills despite enduring hours without power. This disparity has fueled resentment and contributed to a widespread boycott of bill payments in some areas.
“The inconsistent power supply has paralyzed our lives,” remarked one protester, encapsulating the sentiments shared by many in Harbandas. “We cannot run our businesses efficiently, and our homes suffer in the sweltering heat.”
Beyond the immediate grievances, the protests in Harbandas reflect deeper systemic challenges facing Gilgit-Baltistan. The region, which boasts potential for hydroelectric power generation, has struggled to harness its natural resources due to bureaucratic hurdles and financial constraints. This has perpetuated a cycle of inadequate infrastructure development, including roads, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions.
“The neglect of our region is palpable,” lamented a community leader. “We face disparities in every aspect of life compared to other parts of Pakistan.”
Indeed, the educational sector has not been spared from these challenges. Universities and schools in Gilgit-Baltistan suffer from underfunding, faculty shortages, and overcrowded classrooms. Recent protests by academic staff have underscored the dire financial straits gripping these institutions, threatening the quality of education available to local youth.
As tensions simmer in Harbandas and across Gilgit-Baltistan, calls for urgent government intervention grow louder. Residents demand sustainable solutions to the energy crisis and equitable development policies that address the region’s long-standing grievances.
“The time for promises is over,” declared a protester. “We need action now to improve our lives and secure a better future for our children.”
In the face of mounting discontent, the Pakistani government faces a critical test in addressing the multifaceted challenges of Gilgit-Baltistan, where the quest for basic amenities and dignified living conditions continues to define daily life for its resilient inhabitants.
