Abid for completion of ongoing projects in time

ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Power Chaudhry Abid Sher Ali Friday directed the heads of power sector entities to complete their ongoing projects in time.

Chairing a meeting on power system constraints at WAPDA House, he lauded the unending efforts of all quarters concerned to overcome load shedding and mentioned that at present surplus electricity was available in the system, a press release said.

However, due to certain system constraints and line losses, load shedding were being observed at power distribution companies (DISCOs) level.

He affirmed that the present government aimed to shut down all expensive oil based power plants to ensure availability of cheaper energy for consumers.

He also apprised that the previous government did not pay heed on rehabilitation and maintenance of old power plants which caused several system constraints inflicting heavy losses.

However, the government had carried out and completed various projects during last four years.

Abid Sher Ali said Ministry of Power identified system constraints, communicated targets to all the departments concerned to initiate up-gradation of transmission system on war footing.

He also directed the officials of Power Division, PEPCO, NTDC and DISCOs to rigorously monitor the pace of developmental work and ensure timely completion of all ongoing projects. Next meeting of system constraints would be held in December.

He clearly mentioned that officials failed to complete projects within the given date would be penalized.

He directed CEOs that honest and dedicated officers should be posted on key posts for completion of projects.

He also expressed satisfaction on energisation of 500 KV Port Qasim Transmission Line and appreciated NTDC and DISCOs for coordinated efforts to overcome the issues of system constraints. NTDC deputy managing director, CEOs of all DISCOs, GM (R&CO) PEPCO and other senior officials of Power Division attended the meeting.