The Federal Minister for Energy, Khurram Dastagir, has confirmed that no major electricity breakdowns have been reported due to the prevailing cyclonic situation in Pakistan. The Federal Ministry of Energy is currently working on the rehabilitation of the electricity system which may be affected by Cyclone ‘Biporjoy.
Minister Dastagir addressed the press conference in Hyderabad on Wednesday and stated that, under the direction of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, he was visiting different areas of the coastal belt to evaluate the cyclonic situation.
While the cyclonic situation is not confined to one province, the Federal Energy Ministry is working on a national level to overcome likely electricity failures. Approximately 2000 volunteers have been detailed from Punjab to assist in restoration and rehabilitation work. Of these volunteers, 1300 personnel have arrived in HESCO’s region and have been deputed in different locations. In addition, 160 vehicles, including heavy cranes, have been sent to Cyclone hit areas, arranged by the National Transmission & Dispatch Company (NTDC).
Minister Dastagir also reported that eight poles collapsed in the Jhampir area due to heavy winds and two electricity towers collapsed in the Laadiyon area of district sujawal. However, restoration work has already begun to restore the power supply.
The MD of HESCO, Dr Rana Abdul Jabar, HESCO Chief Muzzafr Ali Abbassi, Joint Secretary of Energy Ministry, and other HESCO officers were also present during the press conference.
The Federal Energy Ministry and HESCO have devised a comprehensive strategy to overcome electricity failures in the Cyclonic situation. The strategy will help to restore and rehabilitate electricity systems in the affected areas, minimizing the risk of future damage and disruption.
