ISLAMABAD: The Power Division has reportedly fallen behind on a majority of tasks assigned by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) through the Task Management System (TMS), including the critical establishment of a competitive electricity market. Of the 147 tasks assigned, only 53 have been completed, with 77 overdue and 17 still in progress, according to PMO sources.
The review highlighted concerns regarding delays in key initiatives. Notably, the Boards of the Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB) and the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) remain incomplete, hindering progress on essential projects. Additionally, a comprehensive plan for solarizing agricultural tube wells across Pakistan is still pending.
Efforts to upgrade the metering infrastructure are underway, with an Asian Development Bank (ADB) commitment of $200 million to support meter installations. However, funding and deployment issues continue to challenge implementation.
Progress on other tasks, such as the PM’s Fan Replacement Program and creating a distinct tariff for Special Economic Zones (SEZs), has also been slow. The Power Division is now directed to adopt a proactive approach and coordinate with the PMO to address these overdue tasks.
Story by Mushtaq Ghumman
