In the high-altitude regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, where fragile ecosystems and vast glaciers make communities highly vulnerable to climate change, households have traditionally depended on wood-burning stoves for daily cooking. While these stoves meet basic needs, they also contribute to deforestation, carbon emissions, and indoor air pollution, with women and children facing the greatest health risks.
To address this challenge, AKRSP joined hands with Third Pole Solutions to introduce energy-efficient electric cookstoves in areas with surplus electricity. What started as a simple idea has quickly grown into a large-scale effort, reaching some of the most remote mountain communities.
In less than six months, 35,000 electric cookstoves have been distributed, benefiting around 297,500 people, based on an average household size of 8.5 individuals. This rapid progress highlights both the urgency of the need and the effectiveness of community-driven delivery systems.
By June 2026, a further 15,000 stoves will be provided, extending the programme to 50,000 households and improving the lives of approximately 450,000 people.
The impact of this initiative is already visible in everyday life. Kitchens are becoming cleaner with far less smoke, leading to better health, especially for women and children. Reduced dependence on firewood is helping protect fragile mountain forests, while the time saved from collecting fuel is allowing families to focus more on livelihoods, education, and overall wellbeing.
Reaching this scale in geographically isolated and climatically challenging areas is not easy. It shows what can be achieved when practical solutions, strong partnerships, and community engagement come together with a clear purpose.
