Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Drone/Aerial
"Rising with the sun: "Ghoramara" Island’s journey to a brighter, sustainable future."

Ghoramara Island, located in the Sundarbans region of West Bengal, India, is often called the "Sinking Island" due to its high risk of frequent flooding. This constant threat previously made traditional power supplies impossible, leaving its 5,000 residents without reliable electricity. However, in January 2024, a transformational change occurred with the installation of a 250KW solar power plant, the largest off-grid facility of its kind in India, marking a significant milestone for the island. These solar plants use abundant sunlight to provide sustainable and reliable electricity even during floods. Renewable energy powers houses and essential equipment such as boats, water pumps and electric vehicles (totos), significantly improving the islanders' quality of life. Local production and use of renewable energy have empowered communities, providing an environmentally friendly solution that is resilient to the challenges of climate change. This initiative represents an important step towards building resilience against the adverse effects of climate change in vulnerable regions like the Sundarbans. By harnessing solar energy, Ghoramara Island has not only improved livelihoods but also set a precedent for other vulnerable areas to pursue sustainability and resilience.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 05.2024
Date Uploaded: 10.2024
Photo Location: Ghoramara Island, India
Camera: FC8482
Copyright: © SOURAV DAS