Energy in Gilgit-Baltistan

The energy crisis in Gilgit-Baltistan is caused by a combination of technical deficiencies, including insufficient power generation and transmission infrastructure, and political factors such as conflict and instability in the region, lack of recognition as a fully autonomous province, limited political rights for residents, weak governance, lack of regulations and policies, and corruption. To address the energy crisis, sustainable and renewable energy sources such as hydropower, wind power, and solar energy should be introduced, a modern and efficient energy distribution network should be developed, and the energy sector should be overhauled with a focus on addressing root causes like mismanagement and political interference. Hydropower can play a significant role in resolving the crisis, with an estimated potential of 60,000 MW of electricity. A comprehensive policy, encompassing measures like enhancing energy efficiency and strengthening transmission and distribution networks, is necessary to tackle the energy crisis in Gilgit-Baltistan. A collaborative effort by the government, international community, and local leaders is required to establish a stable environment and ensure the energy resources are utilized for the benefit of residents.

PSDP funded power projects of GB cleared in CDWP

The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) is a key decision-making body in Pakistan responsible for reviewing and approving development projects. If "PSDP funded power projects of GB cleared in CDWP" means that the power projects funded by the Pakistan's Public Sector Development Program (PSDP) in Gilgit-Baltistan have been approved by the CDWP, then it suggests that these projects have cleared an important hurdle and are likely to move forward. This may include the development of new hydropower, solar, or wind energy projects, as well as upgrades to existing energy infrastructure. The approval by CDWP will help to ensure that these projects receive the necessary funding and support to be successfully completed, contributing to the overall energy supply and development of Gilgit-Baltistan.

The news article reports that two PSDP funded power projects in Gilgit-Baltistan have been cleared by the Central Development Working Party (CDWP) and recommended for approval from the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC). The "Regional Grid GB Phase-1" project, costing 17 billion rupees, aims to interconnect the power distribution system of five districts in Gilgit-Baltistan and minimize line losses and voltage drop. The second project, "26 MW Shagarthang HPP," is a key power project aimed at providing energy to the energy-deficient areas of the Baltistan region, specifically Skardu District. After completion, the project is expected to result in an end to load shedding in Skardu city and drive industrial growth and socio-economic improvement in the region.

Gilgit-Baltistan, located in northern Pakistan, is taking steps to improve waste management and promote sustainable agriculture. The Chief Secretary of Gilgit-Baltistan, Muhiudeen Wani, recently announced the extension and scaling up of the "Integrated Resource Recovery Center (IRRC), Shigar" to cover the whole region.

What is the IRRC in Shigar?

The IRRC in Shigar is a novel project aimed at incentivizing waste management at the community level. The center systematizes waste collection, segregation into organic waste and recyclables, processing, and conversion into marketable resources.

Benefits of the IRRC in Shigar:

The IRRC in Shigar promises to raise its own resources by converting waste into resources, such as segregated inorganic waste and compost for sustainable agriculture.

Scaling Up the IRRC Across Gilgit-Baltistan:

Based on the success of the IRRC in Shigar, the GB government is now scaling up this project across the region. The District Administration and local government will be mobilized to lead the effort, with the Secretary of Local Government taking the lead.

Conclusion:

The extension and scaling up of the IRRC to cover the entire region of Gilgit-Baltistan is a positive step towards improving waste management and promoting sustainable agriculture. The IRRC in Shigar has proven to be a success and the GB government's decision to scale up this project across the region is a promising one.

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