Federal Minister for Power Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari has announced that electricity load-shedding is expected to ease from tonight, even as Pakistan continues to grapple with a severe power shortfall of around 4,000 megawatts.

Speaking at a press conference, the minister apologised for the inconvenience caused to consumers and said the government remains committed to improving electricity supply conditions. He added that power availability is expected to get better from tonight compared to recent days.

He clarified that no load-shedding is being carried out in Hyderabad or for K-Electric consumers, noting that K-Electric is currently receiving a record 2,100 megawatts from the national grid.

However, the minister acknowledged that the country is facing a significant electricity gap of about 4,000 megawatts. He said the crisis has been triggered by a combination of factors, including reduced gas supply, disruption in LNG availability, and a sharp decline in hydropower generation.

According to him, hydel output has dropped by around 1,600 megawatts, while LNG-related shortages have contributed to an overall deficit exceeding 3,000 megawatts.

He said electricity demand in April has fluctuated between 9,000 and 20,000 megawatts, and load-shedding increases when demand rises above 16,500 megawatts.

The minister further stated that around 1,400 megawatts of electricity is currently being generated through furnace oil, adding that the situation is temporary. He also noted that earlier load management measures were introduced to help stabilize electricity prices.

He warned that increased reliance on furnace oil could raise fuel price adjustments to around Rs. 1.30 per unit.

When asked about NEPRA’s position that economic load-shedding is not legal, he responded that it would eventually be regularised.

Leghari added that a complete resolution of the power crisis depends on consistent LNG supply and improved fuel availability.