Khuzdar: A major milestone in cli:mate resilience and community development has been achieved in Tehsil Moola of District Khuzdar, Balochistan, Pakistan through the successful completion of the project “Advancing Lives, Climate Action, SDGs and Environmental Protection While Building Climate Resilience in Balochistan.” Implemented by Health And Rural Development (HARD) Balochistan with the generous support of the Finnish Association for Nature Conservation – EKOenergy, the initiative has brought transformative change to some of the most underserved and geographically isolated communities in the region.
Project Overview:
The project targeted five remote villages; Rebak, Hero, Mashri Khair, Rustam Abad and Zerkhar located 30-75 kilometers from main roads and up to 170 kilometers from the nearest city. These villages have long struggled with water scarcity, without electricity, poor infrastructure, malnutrition and limited access to education and healthcare. Through an integrated approach, the project introduced five solar-powered water supply schemes, three solar-powered Atta Chaki flour mills, five solar-powered schools and three solar-powered basic health centers. A total of 7,405 individuals from 1,104 households directly benefited from these installations, while approximately 4,000 people from surrounding settlements gained indirect access to water, flour mills, health and educational facilities.
Impact on Communities:
Women and children, previously burdened by long daily walks to collect unsafe water and the manual grinding of flour, have experienced profound relief. Access to clean drinking water has significantly reduced waterborne illnesses, while solar-powered flour mills have eliminated physically exhausting traditional grinding practices. The project also addressed the region’s acute malnutrition crisis affecting 166 children, 119 women and 62 persons with disabilities by improving access to healthcare and clean water.
The establishment of five solar-powered schools has created a safe, well-lit learning environment for hundreds of children who previously studied in hot, poorly ventilated rooms. Teachers report increased attendance, better concentration and improved academic performance.
Three health centers now operate with reliable solar energy, enabling round-the-clock services, safe childbirth, small refrigeration of vaccines and emergency care. The project has brought vital medical support closer to communities where pregnant women were once carried on makeshift cots for hours to reach help.
Environmental and Climate Benefits:
Through replacing diesel engines with solar-powered water systems, the project has reduced carbon emissions and promoted cleaner air and healthier ecosystems. Ten climate and environmental awareness sessions equipped 331 men and women with knowledge on climate change, deforestation risks and sustainable practices. Community-led Climate Management Committees now oversee system maintenance, manage revolving funds of €600-800 in each village and ensure long-term sustainability.
Economic Empowerment and Capacity Building:
EKOenergy Climate Change Management Committees including local youths received training in solar system operation, repair, maintenance and basic financial management. This has created green skills and income opportunities while strengthening community ownership. Transparent procurement processes, media engagement and newspaper publications further amplified awareness of climate change mitigation, renewable energy and the EKOenergy’s contribution.
A Path Toward Sustainable Development:
The initiative advances multiple SDGs, including no poverty, zero hunger, good health, quality education, gender equality, clean water, affordable energy, climate action and life on land. It stands as a model for how clean energy, community leadership and strategic partnerships can drive lasting change in marginalized regions. As Tehsil Moola moves toward a more resilient and equitable future, this project demonstrates how renewable energy can uplift lives, protect the environment and strengthen communities against the growing threats of climate change.
