ISLAMABAD  – Power supply to gleaming tourist spot of the federal capital, Pakistan National Monument and Museum at Shakarparian could not be restored despite passage of three weeks. A symbol of national honour, the monument was erected at cost of millions of rupees, and it attracts hundreds of visitors on daily basis but electricity to the important tourist spot has been disconnected. Moreover, seasonal flowers and other plants at the site were badly affected due to lack of water in the wake of power cut. Iesco officials said that some federal government departments were required to pay dues worth Rs 7.2 million in the head of electricity bills, and power supply to the building would only be restored upon the payment of arrears. They said the monument museum building was among the defaulters. On other hand, tug of war between Ministry of National Heritage and Integration and CDA was reported over the payment of the power bills. The ministry officials said that power bills of the monument and museum were the responsibility of CDA, though it has been going through financial crisis so payment of bills would take some time.
Commenting over the issue, CDA officials said that museum was inaugurated on November 2010 and a large number of the visitors have started visiting the tourist spot besides administration of museum were also receiving entry fee from visitors at two points. The monument and museum were now in position to pay electricity bills on their own, the officials further added.
Citizens demanded concerned authorities to take notice of the matter to ensure power supply to Pakistan monument and museum immediately.