Staff Reporter:
Quetta: The Balochistan Assembly unanimously passed a resolution urging the federal government to ensure 24-hour uninterrupted electricity to the province.
The resolution, presented by Maulana Hidayat ur Rehman of Jamaat-e-Islami (JI), called for the province to be declared a disaster zone and demanded a waiver on electricity dues.
“Electricity is generated from Quetta, and it’s only fair that the people of Balochistan receive 24-hour uninterrupted supply,” the resolution stated.
It also highlighted the severe reduction in electricity supply to Makran from Iran, which has dropped from 200 MW to just 10 MW. The Assembly demanded that the electricity imported from Iran should be provided at Iranian rates.
Government and opposition parties were united in their support for the resolution. “We will not pay the bills of IPPs (Independent Power Producers),” said government member Farah Azim Shah, expressing frustration over the situation.
Several members echoed these concerns, calling for the inclusion of an end to the gas shutdown in the province.
“Where has the world reached? We are still crying for basic necessities like gas and electricity in this modern era,” lamented Assembly members.
Chairman Khair Jan Baloch presided over the session, where Chief Minister Balochistan was tasked with forming a committee to discuss the electricity and gas crisis with the Prime Minister. Provincial ministers Mir Asim Kurd Gailo, Mir Sadiq Umrani, and Saleem Khan Khoso also supported the resolution.
“This resolution is absolutely correct,” stated Maulana Hidayat ur Rehman. “The people of Balochistan deserve uninterrupted power and relief from ever-increasing bills.”
The Assembly emphasized that the province generates substantial electricity, including 930 MW from the Och Power Plant, 500 MW from the Habco Power Plant, and 150 MW from the Habibullah Coastal Power Plant.
