For Muslims worldwide, Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time of fasting, prayer, introspection, and community. Navigating through power outages is one of the special obstacles that Ramadan presents to Gilgit-Baltistan, an incredibly beautiful province of Pakistan tucked away in the north. This blog explores the effects of power outages during Ramadan in Gilgit-Baltistan and local communities' strategies to overcome this difficulty.
Causes of Electricity Crisis
The Pakistani government's lack of planning and effective management is the root cause of the country's electricity crisis. The country's residents' lack of awareness and responsibility contributes to it. All of the resources that Pakistan may possibly need are either too costly or have already been obtained by another nation that has prearranged its electrical needs. Pakistan needs to find more energy resources since it has taken too long to prepare and make better decisions on the nation's electricity use.
Impact of Pakistan's Electricity Crisis on People and Economy:
Pakistan is grappling with numerous grave problems as a result of the energy crisis. The value of the Rupee is declining due to the electrical crisis, which is also hurting Pakistan's economy. The small manufacturing markets in Pakistan suffer greatly from the increase in energy prices. 33% of production costs in the manufacturing sector are related to energy prices. The cost of production will rise in response to rising energy prices, which will lower wage costs. The textile industry, one of Pakistan's most significant industries, is in danger, and the country's cottage industry is dying.
Effects of Lack of Power Throughout Ramadan:
Muslims fast from sunrise until sunset throughout Ramadan, depriving themselves of food, liquids, and other necessities. The two main meals Muslims observe throughout this month are Suhoor, which is eaten before dawn, and Iftar, which is eaten to break the fast at dusk. But in Gilgit-Baltistan, power outages can cause these habits to be disturbed, which can be difficult for both people and families.
Suhoor Preparation
In order to cook, boil water, and perform other necessary chores in the wee hours of the morning, access to electricity is necessary. Nevertheless, frequent power outages during these times might cause problems with food preparation, which can be inconvenient for families who are fasting.
Iftar Preparation
In a same vein, making lavish dishes and making sure the food is served on time are common aspects of getting ready for Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at dusk. Lack of electricity can interfere with these plans and ruin the joyous mood that comes with breaking the fast with loved ones.
Taraweeh Prayers
For many Muslims, the performance of taraweeh prayers throughout Ramadan is an essential component of the month-long spiritual observances. Worshippers may find it difficult to perform these prayers comfortably in mosques due to lighting issues caused by power outages.
Effect on Daily Life
In addition to religious observances, Gilgit-Baltistan's daily life may be disrupted by power outages during Ramadan. There may be disruptions that impact regular operations and productivity in businesses, educational institutions, and other activities that depend on electricity.
Conclusion
In Gilgit-Baltistan, power outages during Ramadan pose serious problems for people and communities, affecting everyday activities, religious observances, and general quality of life. Communities, however, overcome these obstacles with fortitude, camaraderie, and flexible tactics, highlighting the significance of group efforts and support for long-term fixes. Maintaining dependable access to energy is still a top priority for Gilgit-Baltistan as it develops and tends to its infrastructure, particularly during holy seasons like Ramadan.
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