Lahore High Court has been approached over prolonged and unannounced power outages in Lahore and Pakpattan. The petition challenges Load-Shedding, forced load management, repeated electricity tripping, and low-voltage problems.
Lawyer Muhammad Irfan filed the writ petition through Advocate Azhar Siddique.
The petitioner claims several areas of Lahore face eight to 10 hours of electricity outages daily. Some areas of Pakpattan reportedly experience even longer outages, ranging between 10 and 12 hours each day.
Petition Challenges Unannounced Load-Shedding
The petition raises concerns about consumers receiving full electricity bills despite unreliable power supplies.
It argues that prolonged Load-Shedding is affecting essential daily activities and services. According to the petition, electricity outages are disrupting water supplies and food storage.
Power interruptions are also creating difficulties in storing medicines that require controlled temperatures. Internet services, online education and business activities are also being affected.
The petition further highlights the impact of power outages on hospitals and other medical facilities.
Feeder-Wise Details Sought
The petitioner has requested greater transparency from electricity distribution companies. He has asked for feeder-wise information about electricity outages and load management.
The requested information includes recovery rates, line losses, faults, tripping and electricity restoration records.
The petition also seeks details about the criteria authorities use when selecting feeders for load management. The petitioner wants LESCO, MEPCO and other concerned authorities to publish feeder-wise schedules.
Such schedules would allow consumers to know when electricity interruptions are planned in their areas.
NEPRA Investigation Requested
The petition also asks for an investigation by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority.
NEPRA has been requested to examine load management practices and feeder-selection policies. The petitioner is also seeking financial relief for consumers affected by prolonged and documented power outages.
Possible relief could include electricity bill adjustments, rebates or other measures allowed under the law.
The petition argues that consumers should receive appropriate relief when electricity services remain unavailable for extended periods.
Court Asked to Stop Unannounced Outages
As interim relief, the petitioner has asked the Lahore High Court to stop unannounced electricity outages.
The request specifically covers power cuts described as arbitrary or discriminatory. Authorities have also been asked to immediately disclose the reasons behind electricity interruptions.
An exception has been requested for genuine emergency situations where immediate outages may be unavoidable.
The case brings renewed attention to Load-Shedding and electricity supply problems affecting consumers in Punjab.
In other news read more about: CM Punjab Orders Removal of Illegal House Ramps Across Province
The Lahore High Court will consider the petition and the relief sought against the concerned electricity authorities.
