In a joint press conference in Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and members of the federal cabinet, including Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, addressed the ongoing power issues in the province. Gandapur expressed his willingness to cooperate with the federal government in finding a solution to the prolonged load shedding and losses in the energy sector from power theft.
The recent tensions between Gandapur’s KP administration and Peshawar Electric Supply Company (Pesco) over the electricity crisis have been a cause for concern. Gandapur had previously threatened to take over Pesco’s entire system if the federal government failed to address the electricity woes and issue a new load shedding schedule.
The joint press conference aimed to highlight the commitment of both federal and provincial entities to work together in addressing the challenges related to load shedding and energy sector losses. Gandapur emphasized the need to develop mechanisms to prevent losses to the exchequer and ensure that citizens pay their arrears, with plans for a community-based project involving parliamentarians and local government representatives.
The chief minister acknowledged that addressing these issues would take time but expressed optimism about the collaborative efforts leading to relief for the people and significant reductions in financial losses for the government. Additionally, he announced plans to introduce solar energy in KP to further benefit the public, ultimately aiming for a load shedding-free future for the province.
Energy Minister Awais Leghari also expressed his optimism, labeling the occasion as a “joyful day” and highlighting the federal government’s recognition of the damages caused by the electricity crisis. He mentioned plans to replicate the initiative in other provinces once the details are finalized, emphasizing the community-based nature of the project involving various political parties.
Gandapur’s remarks about separating the position from the institution and the need to work together for the good of the country, despite political differences, underscored the collaborative spirit of the initiative. Interior Minister Naqvi acknowledged the electricity shortage in KP and emphasized the successful resolution of the issue through intelligent planning.
The joint efforts of both provincial and federal authorities to address the power woes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa reflect a significant step forward in mitigating the electricity crisis and ensuring a more sustainable energy future for the region.
