As supply of electricity is so far the domain of the federal government, the Punjab government might not be in a position to honour election pledges vis-à-vis provision of free electricity to consumers using up to 300 units a month but a beginning has been made towards provision of genuine relief to such consumers. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced a scheme for distribution of solar panels free of cost to those consuming 200 units per month, interest free loans for those using between 201 to 500 units and 75% interest payment by the Government for those using more than 500 units per month.
Successful implementation of the programme in a fair and transparent manner would surely help provide relief to the consumers who can neither use nor discard electricity, which has become a necessity of life. Daytime utilization of solar power has the potential to cut their electricity bills by half and spend the savings on other essential items and services. The provincial government has devised a simple procedure for registration of electricity consumers for the purpose and one hopes quality solar panels would be procured for distribution and families would also be assisted in installation of the solar systems. Meanwhile, the Punjab government has also launched a unified action plan aimed at mitigating smog on war footing. The strategy focuses on traffic congestion management to provision of e-bikes, e-buses, vehicle inspection systems; biomass plants; the Punjab Green School Programme, converting schools into green areas; mapping industries to engage in clean air initiatives, and waste treatment plants. It will be a big relief for people of Pakistan both in terms of sustainable electricity supply and environment protection if these schemes are replicated by other provinces as well.
