Power Breakdown: Balochistan plunges into darkness

More than 20 districts of Balochistan suffered as a result of a major power breakdown in 220 KV transmission line.

QUETTA: Almost all of Balochistan suddenly plunged into darkness following a major breakdown in the Guddu-Uch and Sibi Transmission line on Thursday.

Official sources confirmed that more than 20 districts of Balochistan had suffered as a result of a major power breakdown in the 220 KV transmission line.

A QESCO spokesman also confirmed that the authorities are unable to locate the main fault in the huge territory of Balochistan.

“Power supply to over 20 districts of Balochistan from 47 feeders has been suspended,” he said, adding that Quetta, Sibi, Jaffarabad, Nasirabad, Nushki, Khuzdar, Kalat, Mastung, Pishin, Zhob, Loralai, Kila Abdullah, Kila Saifullah, and others had plunged into darkness.

Sources said that Balochistan was receiving 650 megawatt and now it was facing shortage of 540 megawatt while the total requirement of Balochistan is more than 1,250 megawatt.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 24^th, 2013.