The power transmission systems of NTDC and power Distribution Companies (Discos) on Wednesday tripped due to heavy smog and technical fault unleashing extended loadshedding across Pakistan. NTDC officials confirmed that that Guddu power plant, Baloki power plant, Nishat power plant and Nishat Choniyan power plant tripped leading to an immediate shortfall of 250MW in the system.
"There was some tripping in Lahore and adjoining areas of high transmission lines due to heavy fog," said, Power Division spokesperson. Power Distribution Companies (Discos) temporarily extended the duration of load-shedding and added 1000MW from Qesco to manage the shortfall. The shortfall in generation caused power outages after every one hour in Lahore.
When contacted Managing Director NTDC, Zafar Abbas said that two-three lines of 132Kv managed and owned by Discos tripped due to dense fog which severed clearance with the earth and developed a fault resulting in tripping.
"Teams are working to rectify faults however poor visibility was hindering work on the sites," he added.
In reply to a question, he said, only Guddu power plant was out from the system due to heavy flashing and its disks are being replaced, adding that no other plant connected with NTDC system was out from the system.
PEPCO authorities have expressed the hope that electricity supply will be normalised as soon as the technical faults are fixed.
On the other hand, electricity shortage due to ongoing cleanup of canals is another reason for extended load-shedding.
After the announcement of tripping, Lahore Electric Supply Company (Lesco), Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (Fesco ) and all other Discos have extended the load-shedding durations.