No additional burden on gas, power consumers: PM Shehbaz

In a bid to facilitate the masses, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Monday ordered authorities concerned not to impose additional burden on gas and electricity consumers.

The directives came during a high-level cabinet meeting chaired by the premier to devise a strategy for the reduction of circular debt in the energy sector.

PM Shehbaz asked the gas distribution companies to improve the system of recovery of bills. The premier also ordered the bill payment system for gas and electricity be made effective.

Highlighting the importance of an increase in revenue generation within the energy sector, PM Shehbaz instructed officials to ensure all possible steps. He further directed them to improve the energy transmission system and stop losses and theft of electricity and gas.

Addressing officials concerned, the prime minister ordered authorities concerned to reduce the circular debt in the energy sector. Participants, in the meeting, considered the adoption of a comprehensive strategy to control the soaring circular debt in the oil and gas sectors.

PM Shehbaz recalled that the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz's (PML-N) government, during its tenure from 2013 to 2018, had practically eradicated circular debt.

He resolved to bring debt under control with continuous efforts and effective planning and directed reforms in the energy sector to be undertaken in a way that eliminates circular debt.