Energy crisis: High-level meeting fails to find solutions

Zardari wants alternate energy options explored.

ISLAMABAD:

As a high level meeting failed to find out any solution of energy crisis, President Asif Ali Zardari has directed concerned ministries to sort out administrative, financial and technical issues which are exacerbating the energy crisis and submit a report next week on alternate viable options.

The chronic energy shortage has become a critical issue, the president said and added that a political Government which is accountable to the people cannot ignore the lingering crisis.

While talking to The Express Tribune, Minister for Water and Power Syed Naveed Qamar said that during meeting, a general discussion on the energy crisis was held. “We have discussed issues in power sector being faced in Azad Jammu and Kashmir and issues faced by the Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC).” Qamar said adding that “We want to narrow down outstanding dues under circular debt.”

Minister for Petroleum Dr Asim Hussain told The Express Tribune that circular debt issue did come under discussion. “We will also talk to the KESC management to improve the situation.” he added.  The president also called for stepped up measures to address the power issue in Karachi.





Published in The Express Tribune, August 6^th, 2011.