Lahore (30 August 2025): In a much-needed step for families devastated by recent floods, the federal government has announced major concessions on electricity bills, offering discounts of up to 70% for millions of Pakistanis living in disaster-hit regions.
Relief for Flood-Hit Citizens
Federal Energy Minister Awais Leghari, while addressing media at the LESCO headquarters in Lahore, confirmed that flood victims will not only receive significant discounts on their bills but will also be given extended deadlines for payments.
According to him, electricity supply restoration in several districts has been delayed due to rising floodwaters, but efforts are underway to fully restore services as soon as conditions allow.
“Around 18 million out of 33 million electricity consumers are already receiving a 70% discount on their bills. These measures are designed to provide maximum relief during this difficult time,” Leghari said.
Extended Support from Power Companies
The minister explained that Distribution Companies (DISCOs) are prepared to waive additional charges if further relief packages are announced. Meanwhile, employees of LESCO have voluntarily donated one day’s salary to the Prime Minister’s Flood Relief Fund, showing solidarity with affected citizens.
Households using solar panels are also benefiting from naturally reduced bills, easing their financial burden.
Reduction in Tariffs
Leghari highlighted that government actions have helped bring electricity tariffs down. However, he also cautioned that net metering from new Independent Power Producers (IPPs) has increased costs by nearly Rs. 4 per unit—a challenge the government is working to control.
Earlier this month, NEPRA announced a reduction of Rs. 1.89 per unit in power tariffs under quarterly adjustments, providing an additional three months of temporary relief to consumers.
Structural Reforms in Energy Sector
The minister confirmed that WAPDA privatization and departmental restructuring are in progress. Instead of political disputes, the focus is now on strengthening energy companies, improving efficiency, and ensuring that relief measures directly reach the public.
Flood Situation in Punjab
While Lahore has avoided major flooding, other districts in Punjab are facing critical conditions:
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Kasur: For the first time in 70 years, Kasur has been hit by a massive flood wave, with water flows crossing 303,000 cusecs at Ganda Singh Wala. Officials have linked the surge to a dam breach in India.
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Multan: Authorities created a controlled breach at Head Muhammad Wala to divert rising waters from the Chenab River. Over 300,000 residents have been evacuated, while nearby Jalalpur Pirwala and 140 villages along the Sutlej River remain at high risk.
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Southern Punjab: Districts including Rajanpur, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, and Chishtian have been severely impacted, with dozens of villages submerged.
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Ravi River: At Head Balloki, water flow surged to 199,000 cusecs, posing further danger as other rivers continue to rise.
Authorities on High Alert
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has warned that the situation remains critical, and residents of low-lying areas are strongly advised to move to safer locations. Relief and rescue teams are operating around the clock to provide food, shelter, and medical support to displaced families.
Key Takeaways
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Up to 70% electricity bill relief announced for flood-affected families.
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Extended deadlines granted for bill payments in disaster-hit areas.
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18 million consumers nationwide already benefiting from subsidies.
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LESCO employees donated a day’s salary to support the relief fund.
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Flood crisis continues in Kasur, Multan, Rajanpur, Bahawalpur, and Faisalabad.
Final Words
The government’s decision to provide electricity bill concessions brings much-needed financial relief for millions of Pakistanis struggling in the aftermath of severe floods. While electricity restoration continues in many areas, the combination of discounted tariffs, NEPRA’s recent reductions, and extended payment deadlines is expected to ease the burden on affected households.
At the same time, the flood crisis in Punjab remains serious, with villages evacuated and infrastructure under threat. Authorities are urging citizens to remain alert, cooperate with rescue teams, and prioritize safety as recovery operations move forward.