Solar power changes life in remote Jamuna shoals

A solar unit installed on the roof of a house in Baje Fulchari in a remote Jamuna shoal area in Gaibandha. PHOTO: STAR

A kerosene lamp was the only means to light their huts after sunset. They could not expect more than this.

But this has changed. They now have electricity from solar power, thanks to the initiative by Oxfam.

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The international NGO has introduced solar power in Kunderpara and Tengrakandi flood shelters and in Baje Fulchari market in Fulchari upazila in Gaibandha district.

Two local NGOs -- Gano Unnayan Kendo (GUK) and Samaj Kallyan Sangstha (SKS) -- implemented the programme as partners of Oxfam. On February 12, GUK set up a solar panel at Kunderpara flood shelter, a remote shoal in the Jamuna basin with financial assistance from Oxfam. It cost Tk 60,000.

In another programme, SKS set up two solar units at Baje Fulchari market and Tangrakandi flood shelter at a cost of Tk 1.25 lakh.

Out of 42 shops in Baje Fulchari market, 17 now have electricity supply from a solar unit. They also enjoy television programmes.

Earlier, life stopped after sunset in the remote shoals. Now people from nearby areas come to the market in the evening and enjoy TV programmes till late night.

"My earnings from the shop has increased since I took solar power connection. I pay a little as tariff", said shop owner Rowshan Ali at Baje Fulchari market.

Earlier, the market used to wore a deserted look in the evening, but now people stay there till late night for shopping, watching television and gossiping, said Abdul Gafur, Chairman of Fulchari Union Parishad.

There is a huge demand for solar power in the areas, he said.

They have formed a committee to realise Tk 3 per day from each shop owner as tariff. The money is deposited in a bank for maintenance of the solar panel.

While talking to this correspondent, Rasel Ahmed Liton, Coordinator of SKS said they have a plan to extend the facility in other shoals gradually.

This will help people during flood and other natural disasters and will change their lifestyle gradually, he added.