ISLAMABAD:
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday ordered relevant authorities to accelerate the process of privatization of electricity distribution companies (DISCOS) and generation companies (GENCOS).
Chairing a meeting on the energy sector in the federal capital, the Prime Minister stressed that privatization of the energy system, leading to the establishment of a competitive electricity market, was the sustainable solution to the country’s energy problems.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister was informed that steps were being taken to privatize three distribution companies IESCO, FESCO and GEPCO and in this regard, Expressions of Interest (EoI) would be issued soon.
The Prime Minister directed that relevant development projects be carried out on priority to further improve the country’s electricity distribution system.
In order to bring the power system in line with modern requirements, the Prime Minister ordered to start work on a battery energy storage system through public-private partnerships and private sector participation.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister was briefed on the progress of the power sector roadmap, power generation, distribution, privatization of DISCOS and GENCOS, and other ongoing reforms in the power sector.
The Prime Minister was informed that the PC-I of the 500 KV Ghazi Barotha-Faisalabad transmission line was in the approval stage.
Besides, the technical feasibility of transferring the imported power plants to Thar Coal has been completed while the work on the railway line to transport coal from Thar to the power plants is also underway.
The Prime Minister was also informed of the establishment of a competitive electricity market.
The concept clearance proposal for the battery energy storage system project has been approved and the feasibility study is underway, the Prime Minister was informed.
The briefing added that through continued efforts, line losses have decreased compared to last year.
Daanish University
Furthermore, the Prime Minister stressed that Daanish University would focus on promoting modern technology and scientific disciplines.
He was chairing the board meeting of Daanish University in the federal capital.
The meeting focused on the development of the university, future plans and creation of an inclusive and world-class institution aimed at promoting modern education and technological advancements, a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office said.
The Prime Minister further directed that the architecture of the university be designed in a simple but dignified manner, reflecting its commitment to excellence.
He welcomed the President and members of the Board of Directors and extended his best wishes for their efforts.
