Srinagar, Jan 03: In a monumental event, the secluded villages of Kundiyan and Patroo, nestled in the border town Keran of Kupwara district, are now aglow with electricity for the first time in their 77-year history since independence. With a population of 1300, predominantly tribals, these villages had long grappled with the absence of electricity, resorting to wood for cooking, and relying on candles and lamps to illuminate their homes.
The transformative moment was brought to fruition through the completion of two 250 KV Sub Stations (33 kV/440 volts) under the Samirdh Seema Yojan (SSY) initiative by KPDCL Electric Division, Kupwara. The project, electrifying the villages, was executed in a record time of two months, putting an end to the prolonged wait for power. Nazir Ahmad, a resident, expressed the collective joy, stating, “Now our homes are lit with electric bulbs. We were facing grave problems due to the non-availability of electricity.”
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan, played a pivotal role in making this dream a reality. She, along with her team, ensured the completion of the electrification project in a mission mode, garnering appreciation from the ecstatic villagers, said Mushtaq Ahmad, a local of Kundiyan.
During her visit to Patroo and Kundian, the DC congratulated the residents and emphasized that the achievement was a result of collaborative efforts—from officers to line men of the Power Development Department (PDD), local PRIs, and the concerned contractor.
The joy of the villagers was evident as they gathered to welcome the Deputy Commissioner, with some expressing their happiness through shouts upon witnessing the electrification of their homes. This significant development not only addresses their immediate needs but also holds promise for the future.
DC Ayushi Sudan shared additional plans for the region’s development, announcing that the road stretch from Dutt Bridge to Keran has been handed over to Beacon, with work set to commence soon. Furthermore, she highlighted plans to saturate all villages of Keran with BSNL mobile network coverage by the end of the year. Airtel and Jio are also expected to contribute to enhancing cell phone connectivity in the area.
Mohammad Syed Khoja, Chairperson of BDC Keran, expressed gratitude to the District Administration, lauding their efforts in electrifying the villages within a remarkably short span. Khoja emphasized the transformative impact of this achievement, stating, “For the residents here, it is like a dream come true. Now our children will study under electric lights and perform well.”
The twin villages of Kupwara, having endured 77 years without electricity, are now witnessing a new dawn of progress and empowerment, marking a significant chapter in their history.
