Grid power to reach twelve remote Uttarakhand villages near the China border
For the first time since independence, electricity from the national grid will be supplied to 12 isolated villages in Uttarakhand's Johar Valley.
A new transmission line built by Uttarakhand Power Corporation Ltd will finally deliver grid electricity to twelve migratory villages in the Johar Valley, close to the India-China frontier, marking the first such connection since independence. The 12-kilometre line reaches Rasgadi, about 50 km by road from the border, with Bugdiyar slated for electrification shortly thereafter. The Rs 21-crore scheme spans 61 kilometres and includes villages like Milam, Laspa, Martoli and others, targeting a March deadline for full service.
A landslide on July 30 knocked down eight poles, delaying the planned August 15 activation. Residents, who currently use solar lights and limited diesel generators, hope the power will spur tourism and improve living conditions, while the Indo-Tibetan Border Police will also gain reliable energy for their outpost.
Why it matters
Reliable electricity will improve daily life, security operations and tourism prospects in a remote border region.
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