VOICED : Pakistani Kashmir turns to water to solve

In Pakistan's Kashmir region, locals harness the powerful waters to generate electricity through small hydro schemes. These community-driven projects provide light but not enough power for other appliances. Due to a severe energy crisis, many areas are off the national grid, prompting villagers to rely on homemade turbines. The use of wood for heating and cooking has health and environmental drawbacks, but hydroelectric power offers a cleaner alternative. Despite Kashmir's vast hydro potential, current dams operate at just 10% capacity. The local government plans a large-scale dam, but until then, residents must depend on their initiatives.

What motivated the locals in Pakistan's Kashmir region to install a small hydro scheme?

• To reduce the cost of electricity

• To generate electricity due to exclusion from the National Grid

• To improve agricultural productivity

• To attract tourism to the region

What health benefit did the installation of homemade turbines bring to the villagers?

• Reduced waterborne diseases

• Decreased respiratory issues from reduced smoke

• Lowered risk of accidents from open fires

• Improved mental health due to better lighting

What is a significant environmental concern mentioned in relation to the use of wood for energy?

• Deforestation and loss of green trees

• Soil erosion due to tree cutting

• Air pollution from burning wood

• Water pollution from wood processing

What percentage of their capacity are the current dams in Kashmir producing?

• About 50%

• Just over 10%

• Approximately 25%

• Nearly 75%

What has the local government promised to address the energy needs in Kashmir?

• Development of wind energy projects

• Import of electricity from neighboring regions

• Subsidies for solar panels

• Construction of a large-scale dam