Resolving the Energy Crises in Pakistan

Energy has become a significant precondition for the economic development of any country. On one hand it is used for the industrial and agricultural purposes and on the other hand it is required for domestic use of the citizens.

An energy crisis is regarded as a shortfall or deficit in the supply of energy resources to an economy. It usually refers to the shortage of oil and electricity or other natural resources such as coal or gas. This crisis often has adverse effects on the rest of the economy, with many recessions being caused to it, In particular, the rising production costs of because of the increase in electricity tariffs. For the consumer, the price of petroleum products such as gasoline (petrol) and diesel for cars and other vehicles rises, leading to reduced consumer confidence and spending, higher transportation costs and general price rising.

Pakistan is presently facing a serious energy crisis and despite the strong economic growth during the past decade and consequent rising demand for energy, no meaningful steps have been taken to install new capacity for generation of the required resources. Now, the demands exceed supply and hence “load shedding” so to say is a common happening through frequent power shutdowns.

The load shedding-driven sleepless nights and disrupted daily routines of still haunt the people as the weather turns hot. The state of affairs has not improved since last three years; indeed all the signs are that it is getting worse. In this context, media has also reported tragic deaths due to heatstroke and dehydration. This also leads to forced closure of the operations of thousands of industries in winter, affecting industrial production and the livelihoods of thousands of families.

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...itals and research centres is also a viable option. The choice is between using air conditioners for a only some time and then doing without electricity in peak summer months or avoiding them and other gadgets but having round-the-clock electricity available to meet essential household needs.

Needless to say that if the country wishes to continue its economic development and improve the quality of life of its people, it has to make serious efforts towards framing a coherent energy strategy.

In my view, the recommendations presented are practical and a step forward and If implemented, they can not only avoid the collapse of a bankrupt energy infrastructure but also make certain, progress. The main thing is, in order to safely get through the current energy crisis; the nation has to distinguish amongst its requirements and its luxuries, at least for a few years.