Assembly session: Balochistan seeks boost in Iran power supply

A unanimously adopted resolution demands low-priced electricity

QUETTA: The Balochistan Assembly has unanimously adopted a resolution demanding increase in the volume of Iranian electricity imports so that the province’s irrigation could get a shot in the arm.

The resolution also demanded that the electricity should be provided at the same low Iranian prices so that people could afford it. The joint motion moved by National Party leader Yasmeen Lehri was backed by a majority of the house members.



The resolution stated that the provincial government should approach the Centre, asking it to provide electricity as per the Iranian prices to those areas of Makran division, Turbat, Panjgur and Gwadar, which are already getting electricity from the neighbouring country.  “The provincial economy is not in good shape. That’s why joblessness has increased to an alarming level over the years,” Yasmeen Lehri said, adding, “If Iran increases its supply, it will help overcome unemployment and improve the economy of the area.”

Opposition Leader Maulana Wasay of JUI-F backed the motion. Some members demanded details about the recent agreement on import of 1,000MW of power to Balochistan.

Funds for Balochistan

Balochistan Chief Minister Dr Abdul Malik Baloch said the issue of handing over Rs15 billion to the province by the federal government would be taken up with the latter.

He made the remark in response to a query made by Provincial Agriculture Minister Sardar Aslam Bizenjo during the assembly session.

The chief minister pointed out that the province received the complete amount allocated during the previous year in PSDP, adding that before the preparation of budget the federal government had promised to give Rs15 billion to Balochistan. According to him some delays were caused by the government but it is not true that funds allocated for the province were diverted to Punjab.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 12^th, 2015.