Islamabad, In a move to transition Pakistan away from reliance on imported oil, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has called for an increased focus on alternative and renewable energy sources for power generation. This push comes as part of broader efforts to address the inefficiencies within the nation’s power infrastructure.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, during a high-level meeting in Islamabad today, the Prime Minister emphasized the country’s rich potential in hydropower and the urgent need to exploit these resources more fully. The discussion also covered ongoing issues within the power distribution and transmission systems, which Sharif described as requiring significant reforms and investments.

The Prime Minister praised the Punjab government for its efforts to combat power theft and urged other provinces to adopt similar comprehensive measures. He also instructed that internationally recognized consultants be engaged to help rectify the power system.

Amidst these developments, Sharif also acknowledged the current rains across the country as beneficial for increasing water levels in rivers and reservoirs, which is expected to aid in power generation. However, he expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and property damage due to the torrential rains and directed the National Disaster Management Authority to intensify rescue and relief operations in affected areas, ensuring the provision of necessary aid in collaboration with Provincial Disaster Management Authorities.