ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Water and Power Khawaja Asif said that the power system attacked by insurgents in Balochistan will be restored by Monday evening, adding that the release of water from Tarbela and Mangla will bring 6,000 megawatts of electricity to the system.
He said after reopening of canals, there has been an increase in hydel power generation. The power minister said that steps have been taken to improve the security of power pylons and an inquiry has been ordered. He added that the ministry has also been instructed to submit a report within 48 hours. Asif ruled out speculations that the power shortage was a result of the oil crisis and said that Pakistan State Oil has booked 12 orders which will start to arrive by Wednesday.
The minister said that the ministry is making efforts to bring loadshedding to zero in industrial areas within the next few days. To avoid complete power breakdowns in the future, the minister said that USAID and the China State Grid have been asked for assistance.