RECORDER REPORT

LAHORE: Power shortfall has crossed 5,000MW due to short supply of both hydel and thermal sources.

The domestic and commercial consumers faced cumbersome situation with rise in mercury in city. The power breakdowns occurred after every hour, leading to losses of electric appliances at large.

Meanwhile, there were reports that the government was mulling over imposing ban on excessive use of air conditioners during summer.

According to sources, the government was likely to finalize energy conservation plan soon. It is worth noting that Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani is set to hold national energy conference on April 9. The PML-N, however, decided to be a part of citizens by holding a mammoth rally against load shedding on Saturday evening. A large number of party workers took out on streets, chanting anti-PPP slogans, criticizing the President Zardari and demanding removal of government immediately.