Islamabad: The National Assembly was briefed today by Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Azam Nazeer Tarar that there is currently no load shedding in the country attributed to generation shortfall. The assembly heard details on the ongoing efforts to manage the energy distribution effectively and the introduction of new technologies to enhance the power sector.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Minister Tarar explained that load management by the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) is conducted based on the losses of feeders, with those experiencing up to twenty percent losses being exempt from outages. He also mentioned the installation of smart meters in the first phase to combat power pilferage.
The minister further highlighted the active role of the Private Power and Infrastructure Board in promoting alternative and renewable energy technologies, aligning with the government’s vision to diversify the energy mix. Currently, fifty-eight alternative and renewable energy projects with a cumulative capacity of 3837 megawatts are operational, including 1845 megawatts from wind power projects.
Minister for Petroleum Musadik Malik addressed the issue of depleting indigenous gas reserves, outlining government measures to enhance supplies. These include awarding new blocks for oil and gas exploration and importing LNG. Malik also noted efforts to encourage both domestic and international companies for offshore exploration.
Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar also spoke on improvements in the electricity transmission system and briefed on the initiatives by K-Electric and other DISCOs to boost their capacity, including plans by K-Electric to install 220 megawatts of solar and wind power projects to alleviate energy issues in Karachi.
Parliamentary Secretary for Overseas Pakistanis Ehsan-ul-Haq Bajwa reported on the legal employment of 860,000 Pakistanis abroad last year and detailed actions against illegal begging activities in Gulf countries.
Additionally, Minister Tarar introduced the Pakistan Coast Guards Amendment Bill, 2024, in the House, emphasizing steps to combat smuggling. He also responded to economic concerns by highlighting a fourteen percent increase in exports, a reducing trade deficit, and a lower inflation rate, reaffirming the government’s commitment to meeting FBR revenue targets.