PM urges power generation from alternative, renewable sources

ISLAMABAD, (NNI): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has directed to utilize all available resources for power generation through alternative and renewable energy sources.

Presiding over a high-level meeting to review progress in power sector projects in Islamabad Monday, he said the country has vast potential of generating electricity through hydel resources and we have to shift our entire focus towards it instead of being dependent on imported expensive oil.

"Ultimately, we have to move to renewable energy. The oil import worth billions of dollars can be controlled by using alternative resources like solar, wind and hydel. Make cold calculations and I believe, you will be the winner in the long term," he remarked.

The Prime Minister appreciated the Punjab government for taking concrete steps to check power theft across the province. He said the other provinces should also take comprehensive steps to prevent electricity theft.

Shehbaz Sharif said the power distribution system and transmissions lines are in pathetic conditions and there is dire need of reform the entire electricity system with huge investment in this sector.

The Prime Minister also directed the concerned authorities to hire services of internationally well reputed consultants of power sector to correct the power system.

He said the ongoing countrywide spell of rains is a good omen for increasing water level in the rivers and water reservoirs and it will also benefit generating electricity.

The Prime Minister expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives and property damages caused by torrential rains in the country. He directed the National Disaster Management Authority to speed up rescue and relief operations in the rain-hit areas and ensure provision of all necessary relief goods to the affectees in collaboration with the Provincial Disaster Management Authorities.