Unannounced load shedding increases across Punjab as power shortfall worsens

Electricity consumers across multiple distribution companies in Pakistan are facing worsening power outages as the overall electricity situation continues to deteriorate, with unannounced load shedding increasing in Punjab.

According to official sources, the country’s average power shortfall has risen to over 3,500 megawatts, putting additional strain on the national grid. The situation has particularly affected urban and semi-urban areas, including Lahore and other major cities of Punjab, where residents are experiencing extended and unpredictable power cuts.

Sources within the National Transmission and Despatch Company (NTDC) indicated that the crisis is being driven by shortages in RLNG, hydropower limitations, and reduced oil-based generation capacity. These constraints have reduced the overall electricity supply available to distribution companies.

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In Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) alone, the shortfall has reportedly exceeded 1,000 megawatts, further aggravating the situation for consumers. As a result, load shedding in several areas has increased significantly, with interruptions lasting longer than previously scheduled cycles.

Officials noted that instead of issuing formal schedules, power cuts are increasingly being carried out without prior notice, leading to widespread inconvenience for households, businesses, and industrial consumers.

In some areas, residents reported outages lasting up to six hours, compared to shorter scheduled interruptions in previous weeks. Authorities have warned that the situation may persist for several days if supply constraints are not addressed.

Energy experts say the current crisis highlights structural challenges in the country’s power generation and fuel supply systems, particularly dependence on imported fuels and seasonal variations in hydropower output.

Consumers have urged authorities to improve transparency in load shedding schedules and ensure better management of available electricity to reduce disruptions.