Efforts underway to lower electricity prices: Ahsan Iqbal

Minister for Planning and Development says govt also striving to reduce tax rates

Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal inaugurated the provision of Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas connections in Narowal, aimed at improving energy access ahead of the winter season.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony on Sunday, Ahsan Iqbal said the government was working actively to resolve the country’s energy challenges. “The government is making efforts to further bring down electricity prices as the economy continues to stabilise,” he said.

He added that the government was also striving to reduce tax rates while urging taxpayers to assist in identifying cases of tax evasion. “The country’s development depends on increasing tax revenue,” Iqbal said.

The minister said the introduction of RLNG connections would help residents meet their fuel needs during the winter.

Last week, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the opening of new RLNG gas connections for domestic consumers.

Read More: Govt clears way for new RLNG connections

Prime minister said the government took the decision in response to long-standing public demand. He recalled that in 2022, there was immense public pressure for gas connections, but the government was facing challenges.

He emphasised that with this landmark decision, the public will now be able to access affordable and quality fuel.

Earlier, Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik reviewed a comprehensive rollout plan for providing Regasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG) connections to domestic consumers.

To ensure effective oversight and timely execution of this massive public welfare project, the minister directed the immediate creation of a dedicated Project Management Office (PMO) at both SNGPL and SSGCL.

These offices, he said, will be responsible for closely monitoring the entire process, from application to connection, ensuring targets are met and any public grievances are promptly addressed.

In a major relief for consumers who have been awaiting connections, it was also decided that applicants who have already paid for a demand note can now submit the differential amount along with the security fee to become eligible for an RLNG connection under this new initiative.