Non cooperation of Balochistan on proposal of Rs86bn discount in electricity bills

ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the federal cabinet has been advised by the power division that the Balochistan government is not collaborating at the proposal of finalization of Rs86 billion discount in electricity bills of agricultural tube wells.

According to sources, the subject of Rs218 billion amount outstanding against the federal, provincial governments and Baloch farmers has been forwarded by the power division with the ECC.

Also two suggestions related to subsidize power tariff along with two proposals were taken forward with the ECC. These suggestions were held due to Balochistan government’s input, as the government will be liable to provide funds worth Rs 27.6 billion or Rs 52 billion. Hence, the power division protested to the ECC that the provincial government is not collaborating in terms of financial support.

Furthermore, ECC is notified in writing by the power division that Balochistan government has not put forward any explanation, even they are sent reminders several times regarding this matter.

According to sources, Omar Ayub Khan, the Power Minister along with the team comprising of power secretary Iran and officials of the power division and Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO) will meet Balochistan Chief Minister during this week, in order to attain a constructive financial pledge for commencing a drive for the recuperation of unpaid bills and against power theft in Balochistan.

However, in a meeting of the ECC held last week chaired by Finance Minister, Asad Umar had provided a concluding statement that continuance of financial support for farmers in Balochistan shall not be permitted without the assurance of the provincial government. On which the ECC called for an appropriate approach from the Balochistan government.

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Moreover, the power division declared that the Balochistan government and the finance ministry will be requiring to pay Rs767.57 million and Rs1.15 billion respectively in a 40:60 proportion along with Rs10,000 a month to be paid by tube well consumers using 30-HP motors.

However, according to the second proposition, a monthly payment shall be made of Rs1.12 billion and Rs2.13 billion by the federal and provincial governments in a proportion of 40:60 along with Rs10,000 by consumers using 50-HP motors.