Lahore: National Grid Company of Pakistan (NGC) hosted its first workshop focused on addressing Right-of-Way (ROW) issues in power transmission infrastructure at LUMS in Lahore. The event aimed to develop a modern legal and operational framework to tackle land access challenges impacting the reliable and timely delivery of Pakistan’s power transmission network.

According to National Transmission and Despatch Company, ROW constraints, particularly the challenges of securing land access for transmission lines, remain significant barriers to expanding the grid in Pakistan. These delays lead to cost overruns, reduced grid reliability, and slower power delivery nationwide. The workshop represents a step toward developing fair and efficient solutions to accelerate progress for Pakistanis.

Ms. Maria Rafique, Chief Law Officer of NGC, opened the session by outlining the workshop’s objectives, marking it as the beginning of a sustained effort to build a governance model suited to Pakistan’s transmission needs. Dr. Fiaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Chairman of the NGC Board, emphasized the need for modernizing legal frameworks to meet current development demands.

The need to reform the Land Acquisition Act of 1894 was highlighted as a recurring theme. Mr. Irfan Ali, Chairman of the CPPA-G Board, stressed fair treatment of landowners as essential to reducing grievances and litigation. NGC’s Legal Consultant, Dr. Daud Munir, presented a proposal for a modern ROW framework, citing international examples to support efficient project delivery.

Participants from various sectors shared experiences and engaged in discussions on overcoming practical obstacles, legal risks, and procedural reforms. In closing, Engr. Altaf Hussain Malik, Managing Director of NGC, reaffirmed the commitment to legislative advocacy and internal process improvement, highlighting the need for modern legal structures and effective community engagement.