PM takes notice of unbridled loadshedding as shortfall tops 6,000MW

ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken note of the unplanned energy loadshedding that has lasted up to several hours in both urban and rural areas of the country, with the power shortfall exceeding 6,000 megawatts on Tuesday amid a continuous heatwave.

According to information, the premier will be briefed on the demand and supply [gap] of power during a critical meeting set for today [Tuesday].

Currently, the national demand for power is 26,000 megawatts, with only 19,814 megawatts produced, resulting in a 6,186 megawatt shortfall.

Rural areas are experiencing up to eight hours of power disruptions, while urban areas are experiencing up to six hours. In regions with substantial line losses, electrical loadshedding can last up to 14 hours.

During the meeting, PM Shehbaz will examine the status of the current crackdown on electricity pilferage, as well as the issue of power loadshedding in the provinces, particularly Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

On May 18, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gundapur threatened to take over the Peshawar Electric Supply Company (Pesco) if it would not provide relief to the province’s residents within 15 days.


Nonetheless, a resolution was struck during a meeting between Energy Minister Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Laghari and CM Gandapur on Monday, when the Centre and province agreed to solve electricity-related concerns together.