LAHORE - The Institution of Engineers Pakistan Lahore Centre has stated the government must not allow any more thermal power plants based on oil and gas as these plants are extremely expensive. The focus should be on the much cheaper and everlasting solution of hydel power, said the IEP.
It was suggested that the govt may import electricity from neighboring countries as a temporary measure on competitive rates as compared with existing lower tariff in the country to avoid public unrest due to loadshedding and the shutdown of industries. “That inflation should be reduced on top priority basis by controlling taxes on fuel prices and should be brought back to the level of 2007-2008. The total transport system including railways, public transportation, the aviation and industry is dependent on fuel. None should be employed at a salary higher than Rs100,000 by the government on any account and on any key posts on the plea of special expertise,” the IEP suggested.
It was recommended that the ministers and all elected machinery may act as public servants and speak the truth before the public and media; while the public should be taken into confidence through media.
Their pay and emoluments with facilities should also not be more than that of govt servants.
“The elected government with clear mandate should not fear of agitation against her by ‘foreign paid elements’ and announce her decision regarding the construction of Kalabagh Dam. This project is the cheapest and the only logical solution for Pakistan. It can produce the electric power around 4500 MW within five years at a maximum cost of Rs2.50/KWH, whilst providing water for irrigation throughout Pakistan at virtually no cost by upgrading the canal network.”