LAHORE: Electricity crisis has once again resurfaced across the country with the onset of simmering summer season.
The power shortfall has now risen to about 4000 MW, causing 12 to 18 hours of prolonged load shedding.
Following the drop of water level in Tarbela and Mangla dams, the hydel power generation is down to 700 MW only. While the situation is no different at thermal powerhouses, where generation has been hit by the shortage of oil supply.
Currently, the demand of electricity has climbed to 11,500 MW against total power generation, which presently stands at 8,500 MW.
With the onset of summer season, the duration of load shedding across the country soared to 17 hours in small cities and towns and 10 to 12 hours in Lahore and other major cities.
PEPCO spokesman hoped the situation would improve in coming few days with the rise of water level in the dams.
Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) sources said urban areas of twin cities of Islamabad and Rawanpindi are witnessing seven hours of power cuts as compared to rural areas, where load shedding duration is between 10 to 12 hours. The IESCO is faced with power shortfall of 450 to 500 MW.
While prolonged power cuts of 12 to 18 hours in Quetta and other cities of Balochistan have paralyzed the routine life.
Situation is almost similar in other parts of the country as well.
