Energy minister calls for urgent overhaul of power system

Energy Minister Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari informed the Upper House on Friday that Pakistan’s entire electricity system is outdated and requires a complete overhaul.

Addressing a calling attention notice from Senator Falak Naz regarding excessive and unannounced load shedding in Upper and Lower Chitral, which has been causing significant problems for residents, Leghari assured that the electricity system would be fully restored within two weeks.

He explained that the Golan Gol Hydropower Project, which generates 108 megawatts of electricity, had ceased power generation due to technical issues. 

The alternative solution was to supply electricity from the national grid through PESCO, but the line managed by WAPDA also experienced faults, exacerbating the problem. However, teams are working on an urgent basis to restore electricity in Chitral.

The minister apologised for the inefficiency of employees and emphasised that without a complete overhaul, no substantial improvements could be expected in the system. "Our actions are yielding good results, and we are working diligently to restore electricity for the people of Chitral," he stated.

Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani assured Senator Naz that the issue would be addressed when the Ministry briefs the Committee of the Whole of the Senate on the power crisis.