After a 23-year hiatus, the village of Ghodegaun in Tila Rural Municipality-6 of Jumla district is celebrating the restoration of electricity. Power has been restored through solar energy generated in the nearby Pokhari Gaun of Tila-7, bringing joy to the community.

Electricity was initially generated in Ghodegaun from the Ghatte Khola river in 1997, producing 5 kilowatts of power. This supply continued for four years until it ceased functioning in 2001, largely due to the severe conflict between the then CPN-Maoist rebels and the state. The machinery deteriorated and was left in disrepair as the environment was not conducive to maintenance during the conflict.

Now, with electricity finally back in the village, all 86 households are basking in the glow of power. Previously, the absence of electricity made daily activities challenging, affecting schools, healthcare institutions, and public places. Villagers relied on pine wood for lighting, struggling to manage daily tasks without electrical assistance. Local residents expressed happiness that the village has transformed into a bright and vibrant place.

Dinesh Bahadur Rokaya, a local resident, said, “With the return of electricity, darkness has been banished from our village. Not only has the village become lively, but the future of our children has also brightened.”

The solar power line installed from Tila-7 Pokhari has now brought electricity to Ghodegaun. Due to its remote geographical location, national transmission lines have yet to reach the area. Wealthier families had previously relied on solar panels, while poorer households depended on kerosene lamps and wood for light.

Gogan Bahadur Rokaya noted, “With the village illuminated, the gap between the rich and the poor has narrowed. Everyone’s homes are now bright.”

Prior to the restoration of electricity, villagers were unable to charge mobile phones, play radios, or use any electrical appliances. Residents had to visit schools, health posts, and the local ward office just to charge their devices.

To extend the electricity line to Ghodegaun, Tila Rural Municipality allocated 800,000 rupees, with an additional 5.1 million rupees provided by the federal government. The 5-kilowatt power supply that once sustained the village for four years is now revitalised, coinciding with the festive season of Dashain, further enhancing the local spirit.

With electricity now available, villagers can undertake activities such as grinding, milling, and various tasks that were previously hindered by the lack of power. As rivers dry up in winter, this change is especially significant, allowing villagers to conduct essential farming activities without the need to travel to distant mills.

The return of electricity in Ghodegaun marks a new chapter in the village’s development, promising a brighter future for its inhabitants.