GILGIT: Gilgit city has been experiencing severe power outages for the past four days due to a boulder striking the water channel of the 18-megawatt Naltar power station. The Water and Power Department reported that the power supply has been suspended since Wednesday and will likely remain disrupted until October 2 as maintenance efforts continue.
The prolonged outages have significantly impacted daily life, with residents facing over 20 hours without electricity. Locals attribute the crisis to poorly designed power stations, outdated machinery, and mismanagement within the department.
Residents like Nazakat Ali and Safdar Hussain expressed frustration over the frequent disruptions, particularly following natural disasters such as floods and landslides. Businesses, education, healthcare, and tourism have all been affected.
Despite Gilgit-Baltistan’s hydropower potential, successive governments have failed to ensure a stable power supply, leaving many frustrated. Secretary Water and Power, Sanaullah, assured the public that repairs are ongoing, including the installation of steel frames to protect local settlements.
