The Hidden Struggles Behind Scenic Views in Jakholi
Jakholi, a village nestled in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, is a place of peace and beauty. But beneath this lies a difficult reality — the villagers have long struggled with infrastructure.
For years, a broken retaining wall and a dangerously slippery, unpaved road made everyday life difficult. Especially during the monsoon, the lack of a safe path turned basic mobility into a serious risk. This wasn’t just about transportation; it was about access to health, education, and daily livelihood.
From Dialogue to Determination — How One Question Sparked Collective Action
When Goonj visited Jakholi under its Cloth for Work (CFW) initiative, a community meeting became the turning point. Villagers were invited to share their challenges — and the roads were the top concern.
Then came a simple yet powerful question from the Goonj team:
“Can you build the road yourselves?”
The silence that followed wasn’t hesitation — it was reflection. Soon, resolve set in.
Community members gathered for a Cloth for Work meeting
77 Villagers. 3 Days. One Rebuilt Path to Dignity.
- Some carried stones from far-off locations
- Others repaired the retaining wall
- Many worked on leveling and paving the roads
Their combined efforts changed the hazardous path into a safe, functional road. The slipperiness was gone. The danger was gone. What remained was dignified development.
Villagers repairing roads and reconstructing the wall
Cloth for Work: Where Effort Meets Dignity
These kits, consisting of essential items such as clothing and household materials, are part of Goonj’s ethos: development with dignity, not dependency.
“These roads are not just paths,” said one villager, “they are proof that when we stand together, we can solve anything.”
Cloth for Work: A Model of People-Led Rural Development
Goonj’s Cloth for Work reframes development as something communities can lead themselves to. Be it rural road repair, pond cleaning, or school maintenance, people contribute their efforts and, in return, are rewarded carefully curated kits that reflect their effort and dignity.
Jakholi is now more than a scenic village — it’s a symbol of self-reliance.
From Relief to Resilience: Lessons from Jakholi
Jakholi’s story is a testament to what people can achieve when they’re given the right effort, voice, and respect. It’s not just about fixing roads—it’s about building the foundation of resilient communities, one stone at a time.
Villagers measuring after completing the roadwork
Be a Part of Change
Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
