Solar Power Ends Firewood Use in Garo Hills Village
In a remarkable feat, the remote village of Naronggre in Garo Hills has bid adieu to firewood as a primary source of cooking fuel. For decades, the village of just over 50 households relied on firewood to cook meals, with the absence of electricity being a significant challenge. However, with the intervention of Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma and the initiative of Global Himalayan Expedition (GHE), the village has now been equipped with solar power, revolutionizing the way its residents cook and live.
The struggle with firewood was a daily grind for the villagers. Gathering firewood was a laborious task, often requiring long hours of trekking through the hills. The smoke from the cooking fires would fill the air, making it difficult for the residents to breathe. Moreover, the scarcity of firewood during the dry seasons would lead to a drastic reduction in food intake, further exacerbating the struggles of the villagers.
The situation was dire, but the villagers never lost hope. They knew that there had to be a better way to cook their meals, one that would not only be more efficient but also environmentally friendly. Their prayers were answered when Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma announced the launch of the “Electricity for All” initiative, aimed at providing electricity to the remote and underserved villages of Meghalaya.
GHE, a non-profit organization, partnered with the government to make this initiative a reality. The organization, known for its innovative approach to providing sustainable energy solutions to remote communities, was thrilled to be a part of this project.
“We are delighted to have been a part of this project,” said Ridhima Pandey, a program manager at GHE. “Our team worked closely with the villagers to identify their needs and develop a solution that would cater to their unique requirements. The installation of solar power systems and solar-powered electric pressure cookers has been a game-changer for the village.”
The installation of solar power systems was a complex process that required careful planning and execution. The team from GHE had to navigate treacherous terrain to reach the village, which was accessible only by foot. They had to install solar panels on rooftops, connect them to batteries, and ensure that the systems were safe and reliable.
The villagers were thrilled when they first saw the solar-powered electric pressure cookers in action. Cooking meals was no longer a laborious task that required hours of gathering firewood and tending to the fire. With the new cookers, they could cook their meals quickly and efficiently, using clean energy that was free from smoke and pollution.
The impact of this initiative has been far-reaching. The villagers no longer have to venture out into the hills to gather firewood, freeing up their time to pursue other activities. The air is cleaner, and the village is no longer shrouded in smoke. Moreover, the villagers have reported a significant reduction in their energy expenditure, as they no longer have to spend hours cooking meals.
The success of this initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation. The partnership between the government, GHE, and the villagers has brought about a transformation in the village, one that will have a lasting impact on the lives of its residents.
As Naronggre village continues to thrive, its residents are grateful for the opportunity to live a better life, free from the drudgery of firewood. For them, the installation of solar power systems and solar-powered electric pressure cookers has been a blessing, one that has brought about a new era of peace and prosperity.
News Source:
https://hubnetwork.in/no-more-firewood-solar-power-lights-up-homes-in-remote-naronggre-village-in-garo-hills/
