PM Kakar orders swift action against power thieves, defaulters

Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Monday ordered immediate action against those involved in power theft in the country and asked the relevant authorities to submit reports in this regard on a daily basis.

The prime minister, while presiding over a meeting of energy sector in Islamabad, issued firm directives to expedite actions against electricity defaulters. Emphasising a zero-tolerance approach towards electricity thieves and defaulters, the premier said that there should not be any leniency towards them.

During the meeting, PM Kakar was briefed in detail about all sections of the energy sector. The meeting was informed about the total installed capacity, actual generation and overall energy supply during various seasons.

The prime minister was also informed about the energy mix in power production. During the discussion, PM Kakar underscored the need for prioritising renewable and hydropower sources in future energy production to ensure cost-effectiveness and environmental sustainability.

He also directed for the implementation of effective measures aimed at reducing power distribution companies' line losses. Additionally, he emphasised the need for a comprehensive plan to be developed and presented for the execution of the transformer metering project.

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Speaking on the matter, he advocated for the strategic planning of small hydel power projects, stressing the importance of expert guidance.

He noted that these projects not only yield cost-effective electricity but also contribute to mitigating the adverse impacts of climate change. Furthermore, he urged the preference for local coal over pricey imported coal in coal power generation initiatives.

The prime minister also directed to immediately start work on the construction of 2,400 MW solar power projects while ensuring transparency in the entire process. The government, he said would take all possible steps to reduce the circular debt of the power sector.

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The meeting was also informed about the updates regarding the development of an electricity energy market in the country.

During the meeting, it was disclosed that the establishment of this energy market would substantially enhance the performance and capacity of the power sector, thereby benefitting 27 million domestic consumers.

Furthermore, it was highlighted that the power division has made significant progress, with the majority of the required work already accomplished in this regard.