The government would explore all possibilities for additional funding for the coal-based power project and for the installation of smart meters in Rawalpindi and Lahore to help curb electricity theft. PHOTO: FILE
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will consider financing the second unit of the Jamshoro coal-fired power project besides providing funds for installing smart meters in the country, bank officials say.
The bank is already providing vital assistance for the Jamshoro power plant.
This was discussed in a meeting between a delegation of the ADB, led by Central West Asia Department Director General Sean O’ Sullivan, and Federal Water and Power Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif here on Wednesday.
Ministry of Water and Power Secretary Mohammad Younus Dagha and other senior officials of the ministry were also present.
Read: ADB promises $65m for hydroelectric power project
The federal minister praised the ADB for its role in infrastructure development in Pakistan, especially in the power sector. He apprised the delegates of the initiatives taken by the government to address the energy issues being faced by the country.
“Since 2013, things are improving day by day and the prime minister is very keen to address the issue on top priority,” he said.
About the installation of smart meters, the minister said he would personally look into the matter and pursue the approval of project cycles, which had already been submitted to the Ministry of Planning, Development and Reform.
The water and power secretary briefed the delegation about the second unit of the Jamshoro power project and sought allocation of additional funds.
He was of the view that the country would require $100 million for upgrading the railway track from Kotri to Jamshoro for transporting coal to the power plant.
Read: Pakistan moves to pacify lenders, wants $1b loan
The delegation assured the government officials that they would explore all possibilities for additional funding for the coal-based power project and for the installation of smart meters in Rawalpindi and Lahore to help curb electricity theft.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 3rd, 2015.
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