ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, approved the expansion of the advanced meters project beyond Islamabad to address line losses in the power sector.
In a meeting held on Tuesday, the cabinet gave its principle approval for extending the current installation of advanced meters project in Islamabad to other areas of the country.
The cabinet also sanctioned the installation of advanced meters on power transformers as part of the initiative to enhance efficiency and reduce losses in the power distribution system. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the preparation of a list of corrupt officers in power distribution companies, advocating for their replacement with reputable officers to improve company functioning, reduce line losses, and ensure better public service delivery.
Emphasizing the importance of recognizing high-performing officers, the prime minister suggested encouraging them with appreciation and awards. The Power Division presented a detailed briefing during the cabinet meeting, covering topics such as electricity theft, line losses, and strategies to mitigate them. The presentation included data on power theft, line losses, bills, and recovery in distribution companies (DISCOs), along with challenges in recovering losses from specific feeders.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the average 7 percent line losses, the prime minister established a committee headed by Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif. The committee, comprising various ministers and advisors, will formulate a comprehensive plan to reduce line losses, aligned with global practices. Recommendations for reforms in power distribution companies will also be submitted.
The cabinet also approved recommendations from the Power Division for promoting low-cost solar power energy initiatives nationwide. These initiatives include operating existing power units on solar energy during the day, allowing private investors to install 11 KV feeders in rural areas, and transitioning government-owned buildings to solar energy systems.
Regarding international engagements, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif informed the cabinet about his meetings with leaders of Central Asian Republics during international conferences. Discussions focused on agriculture commodities, gas, rail, road, infrastructure, and energy corridors. Pakistan is set to host a Central Asian States summit in Islamabad, where decisions on rail, road, and energy corridors linking Gwadar and Karachi ports with Central Asian Republics will be discussed.
The cabinet endorsed decisions of the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) from October 17, including a technical supplementary grant of Rs17 billion for the Sustainable Development Goals Achievement Programme for the fiscal year 2022-23. Additionally, the cabinet directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to purchase wheat seeds for flood-hit areas and ensure completion before the cultivation season. The federal cabinet stressed the importance of continuing the recent census process without delays.
