From Darkness to light Gurez Valley connects to the Grid

The Gurez Valley is a stunningly beautiful landscape situated in the northern region of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, renowned for its lush green meadows, snow-capped hills, and gushing rivers, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. With an altitude of 2400 meters above sea level, the valley has a delightful climate, making it a popular tourist spot. The friendly and welcoming people of Gurez Valley add to its appeal, making it a desirable destination for tourists.

Despite its picturesque location, the Gurez Valley has had its share of challenges, especially when we consider its history. Gurez is a famous paradisiacal crown of Kashmir because of its rich forests, barren proud mountains, dancing streams, singing waterfalls, mute and meditating lakes, and roaring Kishanganga River are magnetizing and attractive. It is worth visiting this offbeat tourist destination due to its historical sites, such as the Habba Khatoon Peak, renowned for the love story between Habba Khatoon and Yousaf Shah Shak, Kashmir’s last sovereign king. The waterfall, named Habba Khatoon, and the renowned Kishanganga River Lake add to the beauty of this place. The area is adorned with picturesque passes like Razdan Pass and Tulail Valley. There is immense potential for sports enthusiasts, including water sports, water rafting, and kayaking. Above all, the people of Gurez are known for their rich ethnicity, warmth, and hospitality.

Thirty thousand persons make up the current population of Gurez. Traditionally, the people of Gurez occupy themselves with sheep and goat rearing. They avoid constructing houses in mud or concrete because the harsh weather conditions last for about 5 to 6 months. Thus, people of Gurez build houses with wood, which is relatively cold-resistant and long-lasting.  According to the 2011 census, the literacy rate among the male population is 78%, and in the female population, it is around 41%.

Despite the challenges faced by the people of Gurez, the valley has grown and developed significantly, making it more accessible and comfortable for residents. However, electricity has been a significant problem that people have had to face. In today’s digital world, constant electricity is critical, especially for those living in remote areas. In Gurez Valley connectivity was a distant dream, affecting every aspect of life, including schools, hospitals, refrigeration for vaccines and medicines, and lighting. Since India’s independence, the valley had been deprived of constant electricity and was only provided generators facility.

The Modi government is taking the lead in representing the nation on the world stage, especially in regions like Kashmir, where tourism serves as a cornerstone. Places like Gurez are noteworthy and deserve a visit. The past four years have been marked by significant progress in tourism, development, and connectivity, resulting in historic advancements along the borders.

Gurez, which receives 20 feet of snow and is cut off from the rest of the world, has now obtained an electricity grid, marking a significant milestone in the region’s history. The honourable Lt. Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha, announced this achievement, expressing his joy and calling it a momentous occasion. In the first phase, 1500 consumers will benefit, and the rest of the villagers will be connected in a phased manner. Gurez Valley now enjoys grid connectivity for the first time since independence with the successful charging of the 33KV.

This project involved the deployment of advanced technology and meticulous planning to overcome the geographical challenges posed by the rugged terrain of Gurez. The journey towards this step has been arduous, with the lack of access to this basic necessity being a longstanding challenge for the local population. And after nearly a decade of suffering, the sun has finally risen from the clouds of darkness. This dedicated power supply would bring manifold progress in tourism-related and other economic activities. Healthcare facilities in the valley will improve as electricity facilitates the functioning of medical equipment, emergency services will be enhanced, small businesses will thrive, and it will open doors for the integration of Gurez into the broader regional development landscape.

This is just another step towards progress, and there are many more to be taken in the future. The radiance of electricity in Gurez Valley serves as an inspiration for other regions facing similar struggles. As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, let us also remember that with determination and collective effort, we can eradicate the darkness of deprivation and pave the way for a future where every community is empowered.

The present government is confronting challenges and is working continuously to provide basic amenities to all communities, regardless of their location. This milestone is a crucial step towards progress and development, and there is a long way to go in the future. The installation of electricity in Gurez Valley has been a challenging task, as the region is remote and located at high altitudes, making it difficult to access. This achievement of providing electricity to the valley serves as an inspiration for other regions facing similar struggles.
As the people in the border area of Gurez celebrate this remarkable achievement, let us also remember that with determination and collective effort, we can eradicate the darkness of deprivation and pave the way for a future where every community is empowered. It is a reminder that we should continue to work towards providing basic amenities to all communities, regardless of their location.