POONCH, Jammu and Kashmir: Residents of Hill Kaka village in the Poonch district continue to remain without electricity, as the electrification project has yet to commence despite funds reportedly being released last year. The prolonged delay has caused significant hardship for the local population.
MP Raises Concern Over Delayed Electrification
Mian Altaf Ahmad, the National Conference Member of Parliament representing the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency, has brought the issue to the forefront by taking it up with the Principal Secretary of the Power Development Department (PDD). Information was available with The Chenab Times that Mian Altaf communicated his concerns regarding the stalled progress of the electrification work in Hill Kaka.
According to Mian Altaf, the Principal Secretary of the PDD assured him that the work on the vital electrification project would be initiated soon. He shared his frustration on the social media platform X, highlighting that even in the current year, electricity remains an elusive necessity for the villagers. The MP noted that despite the release of funds for the project last year, the commencement of work has not materialized, exacerbating the inconvenience faced by the residents.
Persistent Power Deficit in Rural Areas
The situation in Hill Kaka village underscores a broader challenge of ensuring adequate power infrastructure in remote and hilly regions of Jammu and Kashmir. Electrification is crucial not only for domestic convenience but also for supporting local economies, enabling education, and improving healthcare services. The delay in completing such essential projects often stems from various administrative and logistical hurdles, including coordination challenges, land acquisition issues, or contractor-related problems.
The PDD is responsible for the development and maintenance of power infrastructure across the Union Territory. Ensuring timely execution of projects like the one in Hill Kaka is vital for fulfilling the government’s commitment to equitable development and improving the quality of life for all citizens. Residents of such villages often rely on traditional energy sources or face significant financial burdens to meet their basic electricity needs.
The intervention by Mian Altaf Ahmad highlights the role of elected representatives in advocating for their constituents and pushing for the resolution of pressing local issues. The assurance from the PDD’s Principal Secretary offers a glimmer of hope, but the actual commencement and timely completion of the work will be the true measure of progress for the residents of Hill Kaka. The success of this project hinges on efficient project management and prompt execution by the concerned authorities to bring power to the doorstep of every household.
The Chenab Times News Desk