A protest against the ongoing power shortage in Hunza district’s Aliabad area entered its fourth day on Monday, causing the Karakoram Highway (KKH) to remain blocked. This disruption has significantly impacted trade and tourism between Pakistan and China.
The protest, organized by the Hunza Awami Action Committee and the All Parties Traders Association, has continued despite the government’s unsuccessful attempts to resolve the issue. Imran Ali, President of the Gilgit-Baltistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, reported that around 700 trucks—carrying both imports and exports—are stranded at the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) dry port due to the blockade. Pakistani trucks, also stuck in Hunza, are unable to transport goods within the country.
Protesters have rejected government offers to address the issue, pledging to continue their sit-in until a resolution is reached. Despite freezing temperatures, residents spent Saturday night at the protest site. On Sunday, a protest rally in Ganish village joined the ongoing demonstration.
A meeting between protesters and the Hunza deputy commissioner resulted in an assurance from the Gilgit-Baltistan government to improve electricity supply to Hunza. However, the protesters dismissed these promises as “fake,” citing similar unfulfilled assurances in the past.
The ongoing situation has also affected local trade. Ali noted that snow-removal machinery, essential for reopening borders, is stuck, further delaying cross-border movement. The blockade has had a negative impact on tourism as well, with tourists returning home due to the stalled access to the region.
The deputy commissioner had earlier stated that efforts are underway to install a new power transmission line from Jaglote Guro in Gilgit to Hunza, which would provide 1.5 megawatts of electricity in winter and up to 5 megawatts in summer.
Commissioner of Gilgit Division Kamal Khan explained that the power shortage is a regional issue, with hydropower stations depending on water flow, which significantly decreases in winter, leading to reduced electricity generation.
