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Hundreds of protesters in Pakistan’s northern Hunza Valley continued their sit-in on the Karakoram Highway (KKH) for the sixth consecutive day on Tuesday, demanding relief from prolonged power outages amid the region’s harsh winter.
The demonstration, which began on January 1, has drawn participation from local residents, political parties, and civil society groups, all united in their call for a reliable electricity supply. Protesters expressed anger over the Gilgit-Baltistan government’s inability to provide even a few hours of daily power, highlighting that over 80,000 residents are struggling to meet basic needs.
The KKH, a key trade and strategic route linking Pakistan with China, has been blocked at Aliabad, the district headquarters of Hunza. This disruption holds broader implications, as the route is essential for trade under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Trade activities have grown significantly since the Khunjerab Pass was made operational year-round under a bilateral agreement.
Power shortages, locally known as load shedding, are a longstanding issue in Pakistan. In Gilgit-Baltistan, the situation worsens during winter, depriving residents of heating and essential services.
Protesters have called for the installation of thermal power generators to address the winter energy shortfall. However, officials have cited financial constraints and high costs as barriers to implementing such solutions, leaving the region’s energy crisis unresolved.
