These VDCs, which are not connected to the national electricity grid, receive uninterrupted power generated by a micro-hydro project and a peltric set built along a local river. [break]
“There was a time when we had to reach the district headquarters to see electricity,” said Nar Bahadur Pun of Kyang VDC. “Now, we can use electricity whenever we want.”
According to Pun, 17 kilowatts of electricity generated from Kyang River has made the village electricity-rich.
But Kyang VDC is not alone enjoying this privilege. Under the initiative of locals, 13 VDCs, including Bhukdeurali, Panrang, Bachha, Bhoksing, Saraukhola, Huwas and Bhorle, among others, have their own micro-hydro plants.
The District Electricity and Environment Section (DEES) of Parvat district assisted these VDCs in the power projects. The plants were set up at the cost of 23.6 million rupees. Locals contributed free labor for construction of the plants.
In total, these VDCs produce 156 kilowatts of electricity. The generated electricity has benefited over 14,000 households, according to Ganesh Paudel, community mobilization coordinator of DEES.
“Electricity has brought about changes in the lifestyle of villagers,” Paudel added.
Students no longer study under oil lamps. And housewives can save some work for night, giving them spare time in the afternoons to socialize. Similarly, people are now using internet in the villagers and communicating with family members abroad using internet phones.
The villagers pay just Re 1 per watt of electricity they consume.
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