Khaleej Times reported that Pakistan's incoming government is planning to produce 2200 MW of electricity during 2007-08 by establishing new units that would reduce the duration of load shedding during summer.

Mr Yousaf Raza Gillani prime minister of Pakistan said that the aim is to overcome the power shortage that is projected to touch the 4000 MW figure next year by widening the supply gape from the present 3000 MW deficit. He added that "The government would take the masses out of darkness by installing new power generation plants."

Mr Gillani said that power crisis is one of the major issues being faced by the new set up. The government would also launch a countrywide power saving campaign under which 500 MW electricity would be saved. He added that "Today, Pakistan is faced with a multitude of crisis including power, water, atta and inflation. We should not tell lie to the masses. We should take them into confidence. I am sorry, but all these problems could not be solved instantly."

Mr Gillani said that the government had launched the Thar Coal project with the aim of producing 5000 MW during the first phase, and now the present government would extend the project's capacity by 20,000 MW. He added that Water & Power Development Authority had also been directed to complete feasibility studies for the construction of major dams so that not only electricity generation is increased but also the availability of water to the agriculture sector through the construction of reservoirs.

Major cities of Pakistan are witnessing 5 to 7 hours of unannounced load shedding while small cities, towns and villages are faced with up to 12 hours of black out every day. The situation is likely to worsen in the peak summer.