Electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) throughout Pakistan have started posting feeder-specific load-shedding schedules and real-time outage notifications on their official websites. This development follows directives issued by the Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) aimed at improving transparency and facilitating public access to critical power supply information.
In a significant development, the Ministry of Energy (Power Division) submitted a compliance report to the PIC detailing the measures taken to ensure timely communication regarding power disruptions. The initiative is designed to minimize inconvenience for consumers by providing up-to-date information on scheduled and emergency outages.
The Ministry instructed all DISCOs to consistently upload feeder-wise load-shedding schedules and promptly update their websites with any sudden or emergency load shedding, forced outages, or technical breakdowns. Additionally, companies have been directed to make this information easily accessible from the homepage of their websites and maintain proper records of these disclosures for effective monitoring and oversight.
The rollout of these measures has commenced, with power distribution companies now making load-shedding data publicly available online in accordance with regulatory requirements. These actions align with Section 5 of the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017, which mandates public bodies to proactively disclose information of public significance.
This legislation requires authorities to disseminate information that directly impacts the public without necessitating formal requests. Notably, the move embodies the principles outlined in the Preamble of the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017, which affirms citizens’ fundamental right to access information on matters of public importance. The preamble emphasizes that such transparency is crucial for accountability, good governance, and ensuring that public institutions remain answerable to the people of Pakistan.
