Bogtan residents in Doti still rely on solar and 'Tuki' for Light

Doti: Residents of Bogtan in Doti district continue to rely on solar power and traditional tuki lamps to light their homes as the area remains without access to electricity. The lack of electricity service has deprived the community of the benefits of modern infrastructure and conveniences.

Although a tender was issued to connect Bogtan to the national transmission line through the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) Distribution Center in Dipayal, the project has faced significant delays. The initiative aimed to provide electricity access to all nine local levels in Doti district. However, the contracted work has struggled to gain momentum, leaving residents frustrated.

Local resident Padam Bishwakarma expressed disappointment, stating that despite their long-standing demands for electricity, no concrete measures have been taken. "We are forced to rely on solar and tuki for our children’s studies, work, and daily life at night," said another resident, Prem Bhul.

Kamal Gadsila, chairperson of the rural municipality, acknowledged the challenges, mentioning that while the municipality has a Tudagadh power house, electricity has yet to reach all wards. He added that work to install poles and trenches for connecting to the national transmission line is underway, but progress has been slow.

Similarly, Khem Ghartimagar, chairperson of Bogtan Food Sil-1 Simchaur, noted that poles have been left abandoned, and the contracted work has been stalled for over two years.

The residents of Bogtan have called on the relevant authorities to take immediate action to resolve the issue and ensure electricity access to the community.