PM Shehbaz approves tariff review for eight more IPPs

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has given the nod to a tariff review for the eight more independent power producers (IPPs) based on the recommendations of the cabinet’s Special Task Force on IPPs.

The decision was taken during the meeting chaired by PM Shehbaz Sharif, where the country’s overall political and economic situation was discussed.

The federal cabinet meeting approved tariff renegotiations with JDW, Chiniot Power, Hamza Sugar, Al-Moiz Power Plant, as well as Industry, Thal Industries, and Chenar Energy.

The cabinet was briefed that this decision is expected to save the national treasury Rs200 billion. The federal government has already approved the cancellation of agreements with five IPPs.

Shedding light on the Pakistanis stranded in Syria, the premier said that 250 Pakistani pilgrims and over 300 other Pakistanis were awaiting evacuation. “Efforts were underway to ensure the safe return of the pilgrims, teachers, and students.”

He added that the deputy prime minister and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were in touch with the Pakistani ambassadors in Syria and Lebanon to facilitate evacuation plans.

PM Shehbaz also revealed that evacuation of the stranded Pakistanis was possible through Beirut in chartered flights as soon as Lebanon approved the route.