Chashma Nuclear Power Plant (Chashnup) would be on bar from January 16, a day before the date originally set for its functioning. Resumption of Chashnup would add 300 MW electricity to the system, brining down the existing power shortage of 1700 MW to 1400 MW in one go, particularly in Punjab.
Earlier, it was presumed that the Chashnup would be operational on January 17, however, a strong follow up of the Pakistan Electric Power Company (Pepco) officials have made it possible the start of operations. The Chashnup was closed for overhauling and its closure amid the worst power shortage causing problems to the Pepco officials.
Now when the maintenance work is over, the Pepco officials are over-satisfied with the situation, as according to them, the Chashnup is neither dependent on fuel nor the foggy weather like other independent power producers (IPPs) in the country. The Pepco officials further pointed out that resumption of canals by January 22 would also add another 500 MW power to the system that would ease the pressure on consumers further.
It may be noted that the textile millers and the workers started riots in Faisalabad in early January after experiencing long hours load shedding, causing unemployment and cancellation of orders. However, the situation has improved since then and the country is presently facing a shortfall of 1700 MW from earlier level of 4500 MW on January 3.