The federal government has imposed a six-month ban on union activities across Pakistan’s major public power sector entities by declaring their employment as essential services under the Pakistan Essential Services (Maintenance) Act (PESMA).

The Ministry of Interior issued the notification on the request of the Power Division, covering electricity distribution companies (DISCOs), generation companies (GENCOs), and the National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC). The measure takes effect from July 26 and will remain in force for six months.

The decision is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply as the government continues reforms and privatization of state-owned power companies. Officials have argued that industrial action could disrupt operations during the restructuring process.

Pakistan’s power sector has long struggled with high transmission and distribution losses, poor bill recoveries, and mounting circular debt. The government is pursuing structural reforms and greater private-sector participation to improve efficiency and reduce financial losses.

Under PESMA, the federal government can designate critical sectors as essential services, allowing it to restrict strikes and union activities to maintain services considered vital to public welfare and the national economy.