Flood Victims In Pakistan To Get Major Relief With Up To 70% Cut In Power Bills

Introduction

Flood Victims: In a major step to ease the burden on flood-affected families, the federal government has announced a huge relief package on electricity bills, offering discounts of up to 70%. The decision comes as millions of Pakistanis struggle with the destruction caused by heavy monsoon floods across Punjab and other regions.

Energy Minister Awais Leghari confirmed the relief while addressing the media at the LESCO headquarters in Lahore. He said the government’s priority is to support disaster-hit households with reduced bills, extended deadlines, and uninterrupted aid during this crisis.

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Relief for Flood-Hit Citizens

Floods have disrupted electricity supply in several districts. Many areas remain without power due to high water levels. According to the minister, 18 million out of 33 million consumers are already receiving up to 70% discounts on their bills.

Key Announcements:

  • Up to 70% bill relief for flood-affected families.
  • Extended deadlines for payment in disaster-hit areas.
  • Electricity restoration work underway in damaged districts.
  • Subsidies designed to provide maximum financial relief.

Leghari added that these measures will continue until the situation stabilizes and electricity services are fully restored.

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Extended Support from Power Companies

The government has directed power companies to cooperate with victims during this challenging period. Distribution Companies (DISCOs) may even waive extra charges if additional relief packages are announced.

Notably, LESCO employees have donated one day’s salary to the Prime Minister’s Flood Relief Fund, reflecting solidarity with struggling citizens.

Households using solar panels are also experiencing reduced costs, which adds further relief for those affected.

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Reduction in Tariffs

Minister Leghari emphasized that government efforts have already led to a decrease in tariffs. However, he cautioned that costs from new Independent Power Producers (IPPs) under net metering have increased electricity prices by nearly Rs. 4 per unit.

Earlier this month, NEPRA announced a tariff reduction of Rs. 1.89 per unit under quarterly adjustments, offering temporary relief for three months.

Structural Reforms in the Energy Sector

The government is also working on long-term reforms. The minister highlighted that WAPDA privatization and departmental restructuring are part of ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and service delivery.

Instead of political disputes, the focus is now on:

  • Strengthening power companies.
  • Improving transparency in billing.
  • Ensuring that relief reaches citizens directly.

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Flood Situation Across Punjab

While Lahore has avoided major flooding, several other districts in Punjab are in crisis.

Critical Updates:

  • Kasur: Facing the worst flood in 70 years, with water flow exceeding 303,000 cusecs at Ganda Singh Wala. Officials link this to a dam breach in India.
  • Multan: Authorities created a controlled breach at Head Muhammad Wala to divert Chenab River floodwaters. Over 300,000 people evacuated.
  • Southern Punjab: Rajanpur, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, and Chishtian districts remain under water, with dozens of villages submerged.
  • Ravi River: At Head Balloki, water flow surged to 199,000 cusecs, posing new threats to nearby regions.

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Authorities on High Alert

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued urgent warnings for low-lying areas. Families are advised to evacuate immediately and move to safe zones.

Rescue teams are actively providing:

  • Food supplies
  • Medical assistance
  • Temporary shelters

Relief camps have been established across multiple districts to accommodate displaced citizens.

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Key Takeaways

  • Flood-hit families to get up to 70% bill relief.
  • 18 million consumers already benefiting nationwide.
  • Extended deadlines offered for electricity payments.
  • LESCO employees donate salaries to relief fund.
  • Flood emergency continues in Kasur, Multan, and Southern Punjab.

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FAQs

Q1: Who will benefit from the 70% electricity bill relief?
Families living in flood-affected areas across Pakistan are eligible for this subsidy.

Q2: How many consumers are already receiving discounts?
Around 18 million electricity consumers are benefiting from reduced bills.

Q3: Will there be extra relief if floods worsen?
Yes, DISCOs may waive additional charges if the government announces more packages.

Q4: Has NEPRA announced any tariff cuts?
Yes, NEPRA reduced tariffs by Rs. 1.89 per unit under quarterly adjustments earlier this month.

Q5: What support is PDMA providing to victims?
PDMA teams are offering shelter, food, and medical care to displaced families.

Conclusion

The government’s decision to provide up to 70% electricity bill relief is a timely move for millions affected by floods. Along with reduced tariffs, extended deadlines, and structural reforms, these efforts aim to reduce financial stress on vulnerable families.

However, the flood crisis continues, especially in southern Punjab, where thousands remain displaced. Going forward, sustainable reforms in the energy sector and stronger disaster preparedness will be key to protecting communities and ensuring long-term recovery.

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