PTI MPA Split Gridlock, Restores Power Amid Peshawar Protest

Amid a protest against load shedding, PTI MPA Fazal Elahi and demonstrators stormed the Rehman Baba Grid Station of Peshawar Electric Supply Corporation (PESCO), forcibly activating several feeders.

A PESCO spokesperson reported that MPA Fazal Elahi led the protesters in surrounding and entering the grid station to switch on nine feeders. These feeders, serving areas such as Hazarkhwani, Yakkatoot, Akhunabad, New Chamakni, Surizai Bala, and Qalandarabad, are categorized as high-loss due to significant electricity theft and non-payment, with losses over 80%. PESCO was working to reduce losses on these feeders.

Read more: Lahore Experiences Unannounced Load-Shedding Due To 5000MW Shortfall

Following this, successful negotiations took place between MPA Fazal Elahi and PESCO officials, resulting in the resumption of electricity supply from the Rehman Baba Grid Station to Hazarkhwani and other affected areas. It was agreed that load shedding would be limited to a maximum of 10 hours.

During the negotiations, MPA Fazal Elahi assured cooperation in eradicating the illegal ‘kunda’ system and reducing electricity theft. After this assurance, Elahi announced the end of the protest, and the demonstrators dispersed.

Meanwhile, PESCO Executive Engineer Alam Zeb mentioned that load shedding in the area was being reduced. Community leaders also committed to ensuring the payment of outstanding dues. MPA Fazal Elahi emphasized addressing staff shortages at WAPDA and pledged to eliminate the culture of electricity theft, ensuring regular monthly billing by WAPDA.