Dera Ghazi Khan, February 22, 2026 – Federal Minister for Power Awais Leghari on Saturday said the government is actively working to reduce electricity tariffs by cutting taxes, aiming to provide tangible relief to households, businesses, and industries struggling with rising energy costs.
Addressing a laptop distribution ceremony for students of Ghazi University at the Arts Council, Leghari said lowering the tax burden on power bills remains a top government priority. He noted that the existing structure places a heavy financial strain on citizens, and meaningful reforms are essential to ease this pressure.
Relief Through Tax Reduction and IMF Talks
The minister revealed that the government is in negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to ensure that public relief measures are incorporated into ongoing economic reforms. He expressed optimism that concrete benefits would start reaching the public within the next one to one-and-a-half years, particularly for industries facing high corporate and operational taxes.
He pointed out that salaried individuals often lose several months’ worth of income annually to taxes and deductions, underscoring the need for urgent fiscal adjustments to protect household finances.
Development Projects for Dera Ghazi Khan
Highlighting major development initiatives, Leghari announced that Dera Ghazi Khan Airport will be revived and made operational for both domestic and international flights by early next year. He said formal work on the airport revival will begin next month, marking a significant milestone in improving regional connectivity.
He also disclosed that land has been allocated for a state-of-the-art cancer hospital in Dera Ghazi Khan, with construction scheduled to commence next month. The hospital will provide advanced treatment facilities locally, reducing the need for patients to travel to major cities.
Focus on Youth, Jobs, and Technology
The minister emphasized that Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif is deeply concerned about youth employment and is committed to creating sustainable job opportunities. He urged young people to pursue technical and vocational education, which he said offers strong prospects in both local and international job markets.
Recalling his tenure as Federal Minister for Information Technology in 2002, Leghari said he had worked to make mobile technology accessible to the masses and now brings the same commitment to the power sector. He stressed that youth play a critical role in national development, and empowering them is key to Pakistan’s progress.
Electric Bus Service Launched
Leghari also highlighted the successful launch of an electric bus service in Dera Ghazi Khan, aimed at providing affordable, safe, and dignified transport for students, women, and old-age citizens. He said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility and environmental protection.
Laptop Distribution Ceremony
Speaking at the event, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Ashfaq Ahmed Chattha said that 392 laptops are being distributed to meritorious students under the Prime Minister’s scheme, expressing hope that the initiative would support academic excellence and career development.
The ceremony was attended by Punjab Assembly member Sardar Salahuddin Khosa, Commissioner Ashfaq Ahmed, Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Ashfaq Ahmed Chattha, and former provincial assembly member Syed Abdul Aleem Shah.