Pakistan: Foundation stone for energy project in Vehari laid

Vehari, Punjab: The minister for energy in the Punjab province of Pakistan, Dr Akhtar Malek, has laid the foundation stone of a pilot project for energy generation through solar system and biogas, which is set to be completed at a cost of Rs230 million (Dh5.6 million).

The project is expected to be completed by December 31, 2019, to provide energy and biogas to the area people at cheaper rates.

Speaking on the occasion, the minister said shortages of electricity and gas could be met by establishing alternative resources of energy, and work in this regard would be started at grassroots level.

He said benefits of the Punjab government’s welfare projects would reach most ordinary people soon, adding that energy generation through solar and biogas was the first model project.

He said that cheaper and extra electricity and gas would be provided to three villages and it would help reduce electricity loadsheding.

He said the energy department would look after the project for two years, adding that early completion of welfare projects was government’s top priority.

The minister said the country was a facing financial crisis due to mismanagement by previous governments, which had taken Rs24 billion worth of loans.

He said the country was passing through difficult times and hoped the government would overcome these crises soon.

He appreciated the efforts of Member of Provincial Assembly Ijaz Sultan Bandesha for initiation of the project. MNA Aurangzaib Khichi said that masses have confidence in the PTI leadership and added that the government would succeed in bringing the country out of crisis soon.

MPA Ijaz Bandesha said that the provincial government was utilising all possible resources to solve people’s problems.

Deputy Commissioner Irfan Ali Kathia said the unit would be made a model project.