CM aide calls for effective utilisation of natural resources

PESHAWAR: Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Energy and Power Engineer Tariq Mehmood Sadozai has said that the province’s natural energy resources are a valuable asset with the potential to drive transformative development.

He highlighted the importance of effective management and commitment to fully utilise these resources.Sadozai stated that the Energy and Power Department, along with its subsidiaries, including PEDO and KP Oil and Gas Company, is working diligently to advance projects that will significantly contribute to the province’s growth. He assured that a strong case will be presented at the federal level to address energy-related issues.

These remarks were made during an introductory meeting at the Energy Department, where Sadozai met with department officials after assuming his new responsibilities. The meeting was attended by Secretary Energy & Power Nisar Ahmed Khan, Special Secretary Irfan Wazir, Chief Planning Officer Dr. Kashif, Chief Executive of PEDO Engineer Riaz Ahmed Jan, Chief Executive of KPOGCL Nasir Khan, and other senior department officers.

In a briefing, Additional Secretary Shah Fahad informed attendees that PEDO is actively working on multiple hydropower projects, several of which are now operational and generating significant revenue. Six additional projects, with a combined capacity of 223 megawatts, are nearing completion.

Fahad also mentioned the recent establishment of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Transmission and Grid Company to enhance the province’s power infrastructure, enabling efficient transmission of locally generated electricity.