Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has launched the “Roshan Pankha, Roshan Pakistan” programme to replace 10 million old and inefficient fans with energy-saving models across the country to reduce electricity consumption.
The government says the initiative could help consumers save up to Rs 12,000 per fan in electricity costs, offering relief to households struggling with rising power bills.
The launch ceremony was attended by Energy Minister Sardar Awais Leghari, Climate Change Minister Dr Musadik Malik, and NEECA Managing Director Dr Sardar Moazzam Humayun Khan, who briefed participants.
Dr Musadik Malik said the programme is expected to begin within 90 days and is aligned with the government’s policy of providing targeted relief to low-income households.
He said high electricity bills and recurring floods have placed significant pressure on citizens, noting that climate-related disasters in recent years have caused widespread damage.
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Malik said floods over the past four to five years claimed around 6,000 lives, affected 40 million people, displaced nearly two million children, and caused losses.
He added that economic losses from floods have reached nearly 9.8 percent of the country’s gross domestic product, increasing financial strain on households and communities.
Energy Minister Sardar Awais Leghari said the programme would support long-term structural reforms in the power sector and reduce pressure on the national electricity grid.
He noted that national electricity demand currently stands at around 8,000 megawatts and has declined due to rapid solarisation driven by previously high tariffs.
Leghari said the initiative would eliminate the need for new power plants, address capacity payments, and ensure existing plants meet demand for the next 25 to 30 years.
