ISLAMABAD: The federal government and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government have reached a consensus on addressing load shedding, improving bill collection, and reducing line losses in the province after extensive discussions. An official agreement is expected to be formalised soon.
Following the meeting, KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari briefed the media. Minister Naqvi explained that discussions between Chief Minister Gandapur and Minister Leghari took place at the Ministry of Interior, focusing on providing relief to the public and addressing electricity-related issues in KP.
Minister Naqvi emphasised that the dialogue was productive, with both parties committed to offering relief to the public. The discussions covered various aspects, including bill collection and reducing line losses, marking a significant breakthrough.
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur acknowledged the longstanding issue of load shedding in KP, despite the province generating electricity for the entire country. He assured that KP would settle outstanding electricity dues and launch a community-based campaign to reduce line losses. He expressed gratitude to the federal government for considering the province’s public, security, and economic conditions.
Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari highlighted that the discussions, held despite political differences, were beneficial for the country. The Ministry of Energy and the KP government exchanged plans, finding solutions to ongoing challenges. He stated that the agreement with KP could serve as a model for other provinces, emphasising that eliminating electricity theft would expedite the end of load shedding.
Minister Leghari welcomed Chief Minister Gandapur’s initiative, noting its importance for strengthening Pakistan’s economy. He reiterated that swift action against electricity theft in KP would significantly reduce load shedding, benefiting the entire nation.
