Three-phase strategy finalised to ensure smooth power supply

LAHORE: The Punjab Energy Department has devised a three-phase strategy to address issues related to electrical installations, television and data cable networks, and public safety in Lahore.

The plan was discussed in a meeting chaired by Provincial Minister for Energy and Convener Malik Faisal Ayub. The energy department briefed participants on the progress made so far, stating that out of 2,912 (250kW) sites across Lahore, detailed surveys of 165 sites have been completed, while work on the remaining sites is underway.

According to the briefing, 1,094 electricity poles were inspected, of which 441 were found without proper earthing, while 77 poles were tilted or in poor condition. Similarly, out of 468 transformers, 234 lacked body earthing and 196 lacked neutral earthing.

During the meeting, a three-phase corrective strategy was finalized, comprising a short-term plan (4 to 6 weeks), a mid-term plan (12 weeks), and a long-term plan (16 weeks). Under this strategy, rectification of loose and hanging wires, restoration of earthing of poles and transformers, removal of unnecessary cables and banners, and immediate repair of hazardous locations will be completed.

The mid-term plan includes effective enforcement of telecom and cable regulatory frameworks, elimination of unlicensed operators, replacement of tilted poles and faulty insulators, and planning for utility corridors. The long-term plan includes provincial legislation to enforce safety standards, replacement of overloaded transformers, mandatory underground networks in all new housing schemes, and redesigning of electrical infrastructure in major cities.

Addressing the meeting, Provincial Minister for Energy Malik Faisal Ayub said that the protection of life and property of the public is the top priority of the Punjab government, adding that emergency measures must be taken to prevent future accidents.

All relevant departments presented their recommendations during the meeting, including immediate replacement of damaged and tilted poles and insulators, up-gradation of transformers and junction boxes, inclusion of underground utility corridors in the Lahore and Punjab Development Programmes, and making underground power networks mandatory in all new housing schemes.

Representatives of the Cable Association expressed concerns that the sudden removal of cables could disrupt public services. The minister assured them that all actions would be taken in a phased, consultative, and rule-based manner.

The minister also advised LESCO, PTA, and PEMRA to adopt a coordinated strategy and ensure that all departments provide clear timelines with defined responsibilities. The meeting was attended by Secretary Energy Dr Farrukh Naveed, Additional Secretary Energy, Director General Rescue Dr Rizwan Naseer, and representatives of LESCO, PEMRA, PTA, the Cable Association, industry, Rescue Services, Local Government, WASA, the Walled City Authority, and other relevant departments.