As the cold dry winter approaches, citizens must brace themselves for yet another crisis. In a recent interview on BCC Urdu, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Petroleum Nadeem Babar asserted that Pakistan has minimal reserves that will only last the next 10 to 14 years. This single statement is greatly concerning, particularly because electricity generation also relies on natural gas. The crisis, therefore, as many have already predicted, is twofold — no gas and no electricity!
Unfortunately, the concerned authorities are left with two options: either they invest in the petroleum sector or find alternatives for producing energy and gas. The current climate crisis, also simultaneously exacerbating, should make things clear. Authorities need to invest in renewable and sustainable forms of energy. Traditional and outdated methods, that harm the environment need to be abolished, and newer sustainable systems should be adopted. Pakistan has much potential with regard to hydro-electric power and solar power, which can be devised as compact systems and used domestically. The implementation of such a system is not only in line with Pakistan’s vision for a greener future, but it will also significantly provide relief to citizens who will no longer have to pay insurmountable sums of money for the distribution and consumption of electricity.
