ISLAMABAD — With temperatures soaring and large religious gatherings expected across the country, the Power Division has directed all power distribution companies (Discos) to take concrete steps to ensure a steady supply of electricity during the holy month of Muharram.
In an official letter issued Sunday, Federal Power Minister Awais Leghari reminded Disco officials that Muharram, which falls in the peak of summer this year, holds immense spiritual significance for millions and must be observed without avoidable disruptions.
“Given that the holy month of Muharram coincides with extreme heat waves, it is vital that we take every measure possible to avoid power cuts and support peaceful observance of religious gatherings,” Leghari wrote.
He instructed Discos to inspect and maintain all transmission and distribution lines, especially in neighborhoods where majalis (religious gatherings) and processions will be held. Faulty transformers and other equipment must be repaired ahead of time, the minister added.
To guard against unexpected breakdowns, companies have been asked to keep emergency repair teams on standby around the clock, with special vigilance during the 9th and 10th of Muharram, which mark the culmination of the mourning period.
The letter further ordered that backup power sources such as standby generators and UPS systems be deployed at key sites. Discos have also been told to ensure an adequate stock of transformers and spare parts in each subdivision.
“Close coordination with local authorities and timely communication with the public is essential. Any negligence will be taken seriously,” the letter warned.
In parallel, security arrangements have also been beefed up to maintain peace. The Punjab government has enforced Section 144 across the province from the first to the tenth of Muharram, prohibiting unlawful assemblies and ensuring harmony.
In Rawalpindi, five companies of the Pakistan Army and six companies of Rangers will assist local police to keep order during the nearly 4,400 majalis and over 1,000 processions planned in the region.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Inspector General of Police, Zulfiqar Hameed, noted earlier that given the current security challenges in the province, ensuring a peaceful Muharram remains a top priority for law enforcement.
Authorities nationwide are urging citizens to cooperate fully to honour the sanctity of the month and help maintain order and respect for religious observances.
