WWF-Pakistan, SSGC join hands to provide alternative energy

"Biogas energy has multiple benefits. It is not only the source of clean energy but reduces health hazards for women." This was stated by speakers during an inauguration ceremony of biogas units held at Keenjhar Lake, Thatta. WWF-Pakistan in collaboration with Sui Southern Gas Company Ltd (SSGC) has installed 10 biogas plants under a six months project 'Installation of Household Biogas Plants in Thatta' at Muhammad Yousif Hilayo and Ramzan Gopang villages of Keenjhar Lake, Thatta district.
Speaking on the occasion, Shahbaz Islam, Head of Corporate Communications, SSGC shared that those units had been established as a pilot project and would be expanded on larger scale later on. He said the company was exploring to provide clean energy sources to the communities which were entirely dependant on forest resources. He also said that in order to ensure the success of the plants, community ownership and involvement had been ensured through mobilization and constant community interaction. "This initiative is aimed at improving the living conditions of local communities and bringing about positive change in their lives," he added.
While, Ali Dehlavi Interim Head Sindh and Balochistan, WWF-Pakistan shared that biogas was an easily available source of alternative energy that had proved to be beneficial for rural communities. He said biogas did not only reduce pressure on forest resources but had positive health impacts particularly for women. Anis Hilayo, member of the Keenjhar Conservation Network, said that though that energy was cost efficient for the residents but its benefits for women were amazing. He shared that with that facility women were able to free two hours a day in which they could produce handicrafts and sell them at a profit. With this new facility, residents are also saving their money which was earlier used on purchasing wood or LPG from market. He showed strong interest for more plants for betterment of the people and environment.
While, Naveed Ali Soomro, Project Coordinator, WWF-Pakistan said that with installation of biogas units crops productivity had improved as slurry, a by-product of the biogas, is considered to a rich fertilizer. He was of the view that burning of timber fuel produces carbon emissions in environment which could be reduced through this eco-friendly clean energy source.-PR