Committee Formed to Investigate Underutilization of Matiari Transmission Line

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken action by forming a committee, led by Minister for Petroleum Senator Musadik Malik, to investigate the non-utilization of the full capacity of the Matiari Transmission Line (MTL). The committee comprises Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, Secretary of the Power Division, Chairman of Nepra, and former Managing Director of NTDC, Dr. Fiaz Ahmed Chaudhary. Additional members may be co-opted as needed.

The Terms of Reference (ToRs) for the inquiry include probing the reasons behind the underutilization of the MTL for power transmission from south to north, identifying planning deficiencies leading to low utilization despite high capacity payments, assigning responsibility for any negligence, suggesting remedial measures for efficient power transmission, and addressing any other relevant issues.

The committee has been given a strict deadline of seven days to complete its deliberations and present recommendations. The issue of power evacuation from south to north has been a recurring topic during public hearings on Fuel Charges Adjustments (FCAs) at Nepra, with the financial impact of imported fuels being passed on to consumers due to system constraints hindering power transmission.

Nepra has taken action by withholding Rs 47 billion from NTDC, citing the latter's failure to enhance its transmission system. The investigation aims to shed light on the challenges faced in transmitting power effectively across regions and to hold accountable those responsible for the underperformance of the Matiari Transmission Line.