The Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP), in partnership with Third Pole Solutions, has launched the Madad Electric Cookstove (MEC) Project to enhance the quality of life in mountain communities across Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral. The five-year, community-based initiative aims to distribute and monitor 50,000 clean, energy-efficient cookstoves within the first 1.5 years in electricity surplus areas.
AKRSP held the launch events in Garam Chashma and Chitral Town, which was attended by government officials, representatives of civil society organisations, utility companies, donor agencies, and community members.
The launch events at Chitral Town, was attended by Vice Chancellor University of Chitral
The MEC cookstove—selected after testing five models across five villages—operates on renewable hydroelectric power. Prior to rollout, 122 micro-hydro power plants were surveyed across GBC to assess load capacity, seasonality, and reliability, ensuring stove compatibility and accurate household targeting.
The launch event at Garamchashma covered the beneficiary areas of Karimabad, Mogh, and Garamchashma.
By replacing traditional wood-burning methods, the project will improve health outcomes, reduce deforestation, and combat climate change—while empowering women and supporting local economies. It is expected to achieve an average annual emission reduction of 144,640 tCO₂e, totalling 723,200 tCO₂e over five years, certified under the Gold Standard for Global Goals framework.
Beyond environmental and health benefits, the initiative provides women with training, leadership opportunities, and avenues for economic participation, strengthening household resilience and local economies.
