Day: December 9, 2025
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Delay in the Completion of the 33/11 KV Electric Recieving Station in Bunjwah
GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL
SHAFQAT SHEIKH
CHENAB VALLEY DECM, 09:-The long-standing aspiration for a 33/11 KV electric Recieving station in Bunjwah has increasingly transformed into a seemingly elusive dream for the local community, one that holds the promise of progress and stability. The sustained delays in this infrastructure project have notably impeded the educational pursuits of local students and the operations of numerous online businesses in the area. Initially approved in 2016 during the tenure of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) government, this critical initiative has faced a multitude of obstacles, resulting in significant disruption and discontent among residents.
According to available information, the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir directed the project during a Public Darbar held at Kishtwar on December 9, 2017. Following this, the District Development Commissioner Kishtwar’s office issued a letter No. DDCK/Plg/M-PGR-Camp/492/2017/13222-26 on December 30, 2017, initiating the project report for the establishment of a 3.15 MVA, 33/11 KV Receiving Station at Jawalapur (Bunjwah). This station is intended to address the growing electricity demands of Bunjwah and its surrounding areas, which have been increasingly underserved.
Currently, Bunjwah receives power from the 10 MVA, 33/11 KV Receiving Station Thathri, relying on an 11 KV feeder that stretches approximately 65 kilometres through challenging hilly terrain. This extensive feeder experiences a voltage regulation deficiency of 10.47%, causing significant issues for consumers. The lengthy and deteriorating feeder is prone to frequent faults and line damages, leading to prolonged power outages that disrupt the daily lives of residents in this sprawling area. The local population, which spans a vast landscape, is often left without electricity for extended periods. Repairing faults on these lines can be a time-consuming process, further exacerbating the situation.
To mitigate transmission losses and reduce power outages, the establishment of a new 3.15 MVA, 33/11 KV Receiving Station at Jawalapur is imperative, as it would serve as the central hub for electrical supply in the region. The winter months pose additional challenges, as snowfall, floods, and relentless rains frequently lead to breakdowns and outages. The frustration among residents is palpable, as these disruptions hinder their daily lives and activities.
Upon completion of the proposed Receiving Station, approximately 1.5 MVA of the load will be shifted from the existing 10 MVA Receiving Station Thathri, providing much-needed relief to that facility. This change is expected to lead to substantial improvements in voltage stability, with the potential to yield voltage regulation rates of just 1.67% on the Patnazi feeder, 0.91% on the Dunadi feeder, and 1.70% on the Jawalapur feeder. Enhanced power supply will directly benefit around 45,000 residents of Bounjwah, Dunadi, Jawalpur, and Patnazi, while also creating possibilities for connecting parts of the Khara area. Furthermore, the upcoming installation of seven distribution system transformers under the Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY) will be more effectively managed.
To ensure a reliable and stable power supply to the people of this region, a new 33/11 KV Receiving Station with a 3.15 MVA transformer is proposed at Jawalapur, representing the most feasible solution. The project includes provisions for tapping the 33 KV line from Thathri-Gandoh at Dunadi and establishing Bus-in and Bus-out arrangements.
The persistent lack of a dependable electricity supply has severely constrained students’ ability to engage fully in their studies, with those relying on online resources facing particularly difficult challenges. This ongoing situation has cultivated a pronounced sense of frustration among local entrepreneurs, who struggle to maintain productivity and competitiveness in today’s digitally driven marketplace without a stable power source. The troubling protraction of this vital project has left many residents of Bunjwah grappling with anxiety and uncertainty about their futures, as they continue to await the promised improvements that could vastly enhance their quality of life and provide them the opportunities they rightfully deserve.
The construction of the electricity receiving station in Bunjwah has encountered a series of challenges, largely stemming from the failure of responsible agencies to follow proper protocols during the project’s execution. Presently, significant progress has been made at Jawalapur, where the installation of the supply line and the tapping of the 33 kV line from Dunadi to Jawalapur has advanced up to Kuna Morh, adjacent to the serene hamlet of Anthwan within Jawalapur Panchayat. However, local landowners have raised serious objections regarding the placement of poles and the ongoing tapping of the 33 kV line, a section that stretches nearly 2 kilometres.
These persistent delays in essential electrical infrastructure development have inflicted considerable hardships on the entire community, curtailing growth and stability. The Tehsildar of Bunjwah, along with various administrative officials, has made numerous interventions to address the concerns and claims presented by the residents of Anthwan. In a proactive attempt to move the project forward, the Naib Tehsildar of Bunjwah previously ordered that the installation of the poles and the progression of the 33 kV line utilise the Bunjwah road route from Kuna Morh to Jawalapur.
Furthermore, prominent local citizens demonstrated commendable initiative by actively engaging in the planning discussions for the tapping of the 33 kV line that would cross their lands. Initially, all landowners had expressed willingness to cooperate and support the development. Despite these concerted efforts, the project remains at a standstill, leaving the community in a state of uncertainty as they eagerly await a viable resolution that will allow them to advance and flourish.
From the Desk
Shafqat Sheikh
Freelance Writer Columnist
Bunjwah Kishtwar
9419281321, 9419974577
Email. freelancershafqat@gmail.com -
Socio-Environmental Activist Embarks on Awareness Ride to Highlight Kashmir’s Air Quality Crisis
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FARHAN KITAB
SRINAGAR DECM, 09:-In a powerful demonstration of citizen-led action, prominent socio-environmental activist Dr. Touseef Ahmed today undertook a dedicated cycling journey from Srinagar to Budgam to spotlight the rapidly deteriorating air quality in the Kashmir Valley.
The initiative, titled “Pedal for Clean Air,” saw Dr. Ahmed pedal through urban and suburban stretches, symbolizing a shift towards sustainable mobility and drawing public attention to the invisible public health emergency. The silent yet significant ride aimed to foster community dialogue on the urgent need for collective action to combat rising pollution levels.
Upon reaching Budgam, Dr. Ahmed was warmly received by a gathering of concerned citizens from both Budgam and Srinagar. He expressed deep appreciation for their proactive involvement and solidarity. “This is not a one-person campaign; it is a collective awakening,” stated Dr. Ahmed. “The enthusiastic participation of citizens from Budgam and Srinagar is a testament to the growing public concern over the air we breathe. Our paradise is choking, and it will take every one of us to reclaim it.”
The event served as a platform to discuss the primary sources of pollution in the region, including vehicular emissions, industrial discharge, construction dust, and the burning of waste. Dr. Ahmed emphasized that clean air is a fundamental right and called for immediate, multi-stakeholder action involving citizens, civil society, and government authorities.
Dr. Touseef Ahmed is a well-known socio-environmental activist and academic in Kashmir, consistently advocating for sustainable development, environmental justice, and community health.
“The deteriorating air quality is a silent pandemic affecting our children, our elderly, and our future. We must transition to greener alternatives, enforce existing regulations stringently, and make clean air a top priority in our development agenda,” he added.
The group of citizens pledged to continue advocacy efforts at the grassroots level, promoting awareness about individual actions and demanding systemic change for a healthier Kashmir.
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YSS Poonch Flags Off District-Level Trekking Expedition at Than-Peer Highlands
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POONCH DECM, 09:-The Youth Services & Sports (YSS) Department, District Poonch, today kick-started an exhilarating District Level Trekking Expedition at the picturesque Than-Peer highlands, drawing enthusiastic participation from students representing various schools across the district.
The adventurous trek was flagged off early this morning by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Poonch, Mr. Tahir Mustafa Malik, who lauded the YSS Department for its consistent efforts in exposing youth to meaningful outdoor learning and adventure-based skill building.
The expedition has been organised under the visionary leadership of Anuradha Gupta (JKAS), Director General YSS J&K, whose dynamic initiatives continue to strengthen adventure sports and youth empowerment across the Union Territory. The programme also received strategic direction from Vinakshi Koul (JKAS), Joint Director YSS Jammu, and Ms. Megha Baogia, Deputy Director Activities, whose continued encouragement has been instrumental in promoting youth-centric adventure activities.
The trekking event was held under the close supervision of DYSSO Poonch, Mohd Qasim, ensuring meticulous planning, strict adherence to safety protocols, and smooth conduct throughout the trek. Mr. Vijay Kumar, Activity Incharge, led the trekking group through refreshing yet challenging terrains.
Young trekkers navigated steep forest trails, rugged ridges, serene meadows, and sweeping viewpoints, experiencing the untouched natural beauty of Than-Peer. The expedition significantly enhanced their endurance, teamwork, leadership qualities, and environmental awareness.
As part of this ongoing adventure initiative, the YSS Department Poonch will soon organise a special Girls’ Trekking Programme, reinforcing its commitment to providing equal opportunities in adventure sports and confidence-building activities for young female students.
With such impactful programmes, the YSS Department Poonch—under the inspiring leadership of its Director General—continues to promote a culture of fitness, discipline, adventure, and outdoor exploration, empowering the youth of Jammu & Kashmir to push boundaries and realise their true potential.
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Forest Minister Chairs Meeting to Finalize RE 2025–26 and BE 2026–27
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JAMMU DECM, 09:-Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review and finalize the Revised Estimates (RE) 2025–26 and Budget Estimates (BE) 2026–27 under the UT CAPEX and REVEX budgets.
The meeting featured extensive deliberations on aligning sectoral priorities with the Government’s broader development agenda.
The discussions focused on optimizing budgetary allocations to promote sustainable development, strengthen conservation initiatives and enhance service delivery across the various wings of the Forest Department.
Chairing the review, the Minister instructed all departmental wings of Forest department to ensure that budget proposals reflect realistic financial requirements, outcome-oriented planning and timely execution of ongoing projects.
He stressed the need for comprehensive documentation of expenditures, progress achieved, existing gaps and additional resources required to meet annual targets.
Rana highlighted that allocations must prioritize key sectors such as forest protection, wildlife conservation, afforestation, tribal livelihood enhancement, water conservation, climate-resilient infrastructure and ecological sustainability.
He noted that the budgeting exercise should serve as a strategic roadmap to reinforce environmental governance and ensure optimal utilization of public resources.
Calling for improved coordination and stricter monitoring, the Minister cautioned against delays in project execution.
“Effective planning and financial discipline are crucial for safeguarding our ecology, strengthening conservation systems, and ensuring reliable access to safe and sustainable water resources. Our budget must reflect long-term commitment, efficiency, and accountability,” he said.
He further directed the concerned officers to finalize all proposals within the stipulated timelines for submission.
The meeting was attended by Sheetal Nanda, Commissioner Secretary, Forest, Ecology & Environment Department; Rajinder Singh Tara JKAS, Secretary in the Department , Sarvesh Rai; Chief Wildlife Warden/Forest Protection Force; Chairperson, Pollution Control Committee; Director, Social Forestry/Soil & Water Conservation; Director, Forest Research Institute; Managing Director, JK Forest Development Corporation; Chief Conservators of Forests (Jammu & Kashmir); CEO, CAMPA; Secretary, Forest, Ecology & Environment Department; and other senior officers.
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Mendhar Marathon 2025 Unites Thousands Near LoC, Showcasing Strength, Unity & Youth Empowerment
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MENDHAR DECM, 09:-The border town of Mendhar came alive with extraordinary enthusiasm today as the Mendhar Marathon 2025—organised under the ongoing Mendhar Festival—drew thousands to the Line of Control (LoC), highlighting a powerful message of peace, resilience, and youth empowerment.
Despite the region’s challenging terrain and sensitive location, the marathon witnessed an overwhelming participation of more than 1,200 runners, accompanied by a massive crowd of spectators who gathered to celebrate fitness, unity, and national integration. Youth from remote villages and far-flung areas turned out in large numbers, proudly showcasing the collective strength and harmony of Mendhar.
Participants lauded the Indian Army for organising the mega event, acknowledging its continuous efforts to inspire and engage the youth positively. The event’s slogan—“Let’s Run for Health, Let’s Run for Unity”—resonated across the valley as runners displayed remarkable discipline, passion, and commitment to a healthier and more united society.
Army officers present at the marathon interacted with participants, encouraging them to maintain physical fitness, stay focused, and keep away from drug abuse, negative influences, and anti-national activities. The event once again underscored the Army’s deep bond with the local population and its dedication to constructive youth engagement.
Youth of Mendhar expressed heartfelt gratitude toward the Indian Army, praising its consistent support—especially in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, which significantly strengthened trust between the local community and security forces. Many participants urged for more such events in the future to continue nurturing talent, bridging gaps, and fostering a spirit of unity.
The Mendhar Marathon 2025 concluded on an inspiring note, reaffirming that sports serve as a powerful catalyst for peace, social cohesion, and community upliftment—even in the most sensitive regions. The successful conduct of the event near the LoC stands as a testament to the unwavering courage of the people of Mendhar and the Indian Army’s steadfast commitment to nation-building and youth empowerment.
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Greater Shah-re-Khaas Leadership Announces One-Day Youth Convention This December
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SRINAGAR DECM, 09:-The Greater Shah-re-Khaas Leadership has announced that it will host a One-Day Youth Convention in Shah-re-Khaas later this month, aiming to empower local youth and provide them with a meaningful platform to voice their concerns.
Chairman Mohammad Faheem Reshi, while sharing details, said the initiative is driven by the long-standing grievances of the youth, who, according to him, have been repeatedly used by political parties for their own interests. He stressed that the youth of downtown Srinagar have consistently been neglected and their issues sidelined.
Reshi highlighted that the Greater Shah-re-Khaas Leadership was established three years ago as an independent, non-political group, committed to working sincerely for the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
“All political parties have used the name of Shah-re-Khaas and downtown for political gain, but we have been working from ground zero for the people of Jammu & Kashmir,” he said.The organisation has urged the youth of Shah-re-Khaas to actively participate in the upcoming convention and contribute to shaping a more empowered future for the region.
Appealing to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Reshi added:“We want to work for a Drug-Free Jammu & Kashmir and save the youth of J&K. We, the people of Shah-re-Khaas, are always committed to working for a Terrorism-Free Jammu & Kashmir.”
The convention is expected to witness significant participation from young voices eager to bring positive change to the community.
