In a bid to bring relief to residents living in remote and power-deficient areas of Gulmarg, the Indian Army distributed around 100 solar lights among people at Nagin Dhok and adjoining areas.The initiative taken by Indian Army’s 52RR under Operation Sadbhavana has brought a much-needed ray of hope to families living in the high-altitude dhoks, where access to electricity remains a major challenge and residents have traditionally depended on lamps and candles after sunset.
According to officials, the solar lighting units, equipped with solar panels and bulbs, are aimed at providing a basic source of illumination to households that have remained without a regular power supply.
The residents while recalling the difficulties they faced during evenings and nights in the absence of electricity said life had been difficult as families had to rely on lamps and candles for lighting.”Army’s initiative has helped address both the lighting and charging problems faced by residents here,” Jamal, a resident said.
Another resident said the people living in the area witnessed a life without electricity for generations.
“We are very grateful to the Army. They are not only protecting the country but also reaching out to people living in remote areas,” he added.For children, the initiative carries particular significance as the availability of light would allow them to continue their studies after sunset.
During the distribution drive, the residents also appealed to the people from outside J&K to visit Gulmarg and experience its beauty.
For residents of Nagin Dhok, the intervention is more than the distribution of a lighting device. “It has brought a basic necessity to a community that has long struggled with darkness after sunset,” Jamal added.
An official said the initiative was taken strengthen civil-military relations by building trust, understanding, and cooperation with the Gujjar, Bakarwal communities in Kashmir and to understand their concerns, needs, and challenges.
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“Such initiatives foster mutual support for maintaining peace, security, and stability in the region,” the official said.
