Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has indicated that electricity tariffs may be reduced further as part of the government’s ongoing power sector reforms aimed at benefiting consumers and industries.
During a high-level review meeting on power sector reforms, the premier emphasized that the government’s efforts were beginning to yield positive results. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of the ministry and relevant departments in addressing long-standing inefficiencies.
“From day one, we promised to provide affordable and environmentally friendly electricity to the public,” he stated. He noted that renegotiating agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) had eased financial pressure on the national exchequer while bringing down electricity costs.
Shehbaz also credited the ongoing crackdown on electricity theft for reducing losses in power distribution companies. He reaffirmed his commitment to eliminating power theft entirely and pledged to accelerate the campaign.
Discussing improvements in the power sector, he said the appointment of reputable professionals from the private sector to the boards of power distribution companies (Discos) was already showing positive results. He announced plans to bring in more experts to enhance the efficiency of remaining companies.
The meeting reviewed the performance of the power sector, setting targets for the next three years. Officials reported that revenue collection by Discos had reached 93.26% by December 2024 due to the reforms. The meeting also outlined strategies for reducing circular debt, establishing competitive electricity transmission markets, and implementing further tariff reductions.
Progress updates were shared on key infrastructure projects, including the 500kV Matiari-Moro-Rahim Yar Khan transmission line and the Ghazi Barotha-Faisalabad transmission line. The dissolution of the National Transmission and Dispatch Company and the establishment of a new Energy Infrastructure Development and Management Company were also discussed. Shehbaz directed authorities to complete all projects within the stipulated timeline.
The meeting was attended by federal ministers Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Ahad Khan Cheema, Attaullah Tarar, Dr. Musadiq Malik, Sardar Awais Leghari, Special Assistant to PM Muhammad Ali, and senior officials.
Shehbaz Praises Security Forces for Successful Operation in North Waziristan
The prime minister lauded the security forces for their successful operation in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan, which resulted in the elimination of three Fitna Al-Khwarij terrorists. He commended the armed forces for their sacrifices and reiterated the government’s determination to eradicate terrorism in all its forms.
Climate Change Action and Global Appeal
In a video message at the “DawnMedia Breathe Pakistan International Climate Change Conference,” Shehbaz Sharif stressed the need for predictable, flexible, and grant-based financial support to help developing countries build climate-resilient infrastructure.
He highlighted Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change despite contributing less than 1% of global carbon emissions. Recalling the devastating floods of 2022 that displaced 33 million people and claimed 1,700 lives, he described climate change as an urgent crisis rather than a distant threat.
The prime minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to implementing climate adaptation strategies through governance reforms, policy execution, and capacity building. He emphasized integrating climate resilience into Pakistan’s broader development agenda, including energy, connectivity, and economic equity.
Shehbaz Inaugurates Renovated Gaddafi Stadium Ahead of Champions Trophy
Ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, accompanied by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Expressing his excitement over the revamped stadium, he voiced confidence in Pakistan’s cricket team, particularly in their ability to defeat arch-rivals India. “We are all waiting for the moment when you will defeat India,” he said, addressing players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan.
PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who personally oversaw the stadium’s reconstruction, directed officials to ensure a grand opening ceremony worthy of the new venue. He praised the team’s efforts in completing the renovations in record time.
Approval of Maritime Sector Reforms
In a separate development, Shehbaz Sharif approved a comprehensive reform plan for revamping Pakistan’s maritime sector. Under this initiative, the Pakistan Maritime and Seaport Authority has been established, with a committee led by the defense minister overseeing implementation.
Key reforms include the restructuring of the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation, modernization of the National Ports Master Plan, and standardization of port tariffs. The plan also focuses on digitizing seaports, promoting aquaculture, and developing new terminals at various ports. The committee will convene fortnightly to monitor progress.
