Pakistan’s electricity deficit has decreased to approximately 3,000 megawatts as favorable weather conditions lowered demand and enhanced water releases from dams increased hydropower production. Total power generation climbed to around 16,010 megawatts against a demand of 19,000 megawatts, alleviating stress on the national grid.
Hydropower output rose to nearly 3,400 megawatts following increased water discharges from major reservoirs by the Indus River System Authority (IRSA). Thermal power plants contributed about 8,000 megawatts, while nuclear facilities generated 2,880 megawatts. Additionally, wind energy supplied 1,300 megawatts, solar power 350 megawatts, and bagasse-based plants 80 megawatts.
Officials noted a reduction in load-shedding, with power outages in the Islamabad area completely eliminated. This improvement coincided with a significant rise in water releases from key dams. Discharges from Tarbela Dam were raised from 8,000 to 30,000 cusecs, and Mangla Dam releases increased to 15,000 cusecs.
Water allocations to provinces were also enhanced, with Sindh’s share rising from 35,000 to 50,000 cusecs and Punjab’s from 33,000 to 43,000 cusecs. These higher water flows are expected to further elevate hydropower generation in the coming days, potentially easing power shortages even more.
In a significant development on Thursday, Energy Minister Owais Leghari highlighted that Pakistan was experiencing a shortfall exceeding 3,400 megawatts, primarily due to reduced hydropower output and disruptions in imported gas supplies. He explained that fluctuating demand caused by weather changes and limited water releases for irrigation had strained electricity generation, necessitating load management during peak periods.
Leghari also pointed to regional tensions affecting liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports, which constrained gas-based power plant operations. Officials remain optimistic that the situation will improve further if water inflows stay consistent and fuel supply issues are resolved.
