Energy crisis in Gilgit-Baltistan is causing protests

Gilgit-Baltistan is one of the regions administered by Pakistan, where delays in major infrastructure and development projects are causing public dissatisfaction. This was reported by Zamin.uz.

Irregular electricity, internet, and mobile communication services in the region are seriously affecting people's daily lives. Due to prolonged project durations and rising costs, the population is demanding transparent and timely delivery of government services.

This has led to numerous demonstrations and protests. At the beginning of 2025, residents of the Hunza Valley protested against power outages by blocking the Karakoram Highway, the main trade route between Pakistan and China.

The protesters criticized power outages lasting up to 20 hours a day and delays in hydropower projects, demanding the government to activate thermal generators. These protests lasted several days and negatively impacted trade and tourism.

Energy shortages and infrastructure problems are not limited to one area. Throughout the year, other districts have also experienced 8-12 hour power outages.

Opposition representatives believe that these issues reveal not only seasonal difficulties but also systemic problems in governance. Although the region has sufficient water resources, many large projects have yet to be implemented.

Many households remain cold and in darkness. Besides protesting, the local population is trying to solve problems on their own.

For example, solar energy systems are being installed in Skardu and the Hunza Valley. On one hand, this reduces the region's dependence on hydropower networks, and on the other, it increases distrust in government services.

The main public criticism is that projects are awarded to military companies without open tenders. According to local residents, military firms secure large contracts and later sell them to private companies.

This leads to a lack of accountability and inefficient use of funds. The population demands increased transparency from the government, fair tenders, and timely completion of projects.

Due to Pakistan's mismanagement, the Gilgit-Baltistan region is suffering significant economic, social, and infrastructural damage. As protests continue, the people are demanding that the government fulfill its obligations.