ISLAMABAD: In a significant move aimed at easing financial burdens on vulnerable households, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared a three-month relief period for lifeline consumers of electricity, who use less than 200 units per month.
Announcing the initiative during a press conference in Islamabad, PM Shehbaz highlighted that the government would allocate Rs50 billion to provide relief to approximately 25 million domestic consumers from July through September. This relief package is expected to lower electricity costs by Rs4-7 per unit for qualifying consumers, benefiting a substantial 94% of the country’s domestic electricity users.
“The decision to allocate Rs50 billion from our development budget underscores our commitment to public welfare, contrasting sharply with past administrations’ empty promises,” PM Shehbaz affirmed.
He further assured the nation of additional relief measures, pointing to enhanced fiscal space resulting from efforts to broaden the tax base and curb financial inefficiencies. Highlighting recent agreements with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), PM Shehbaz emphasized that the relief plan had received IMF endorsement, demonstrating the government’s resolve to address economic challenges responsibly.
Regarding structural reforms in the energy sector, PM Shehbaz outlined plans to transition thousands of tube wells in Balochistan to solar energy, potentially saving billions in annual expenditures on imported oil. Similar initiatives are slated for other provinces, aiming to reduce foreign exchange burdens and promote sustainable energy practices.
“The recent adjustments in electricity tariffs reflect our sensitivity to public concerns amidst economic adjustments,” PM Shehbaz acknowledged, referencing a revised tariff proposal aimed at mitigating financial strain on consumers during challenging economic times.
In conclusion, PM Shehbaz reiterated the government’s commitment to equitable economic policies, urging the privileged classes to contribute towards national prosperity. He underscored the importance of revitalizing sectors such as agriculture, information technology, and mining to unlock Pakistan’s economic potential and reduce dependency on external financial support.
The announcement comes amid rising public discontent over utility costs, signaling a proactive approach by the government to alleviate financial pressures on the most vulnerable segments of society
