Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Federal Board of Revenue, the Power Division, and the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan to jointly develop a structured mechanism for the distribution of solar panels seized by Customs authorities at Karachi, according to sources cited by Business Recorder. The move is aimed at utilising confiscated renewable energy equipment for public benefit while supporting the government’s broader push toward clean and affordable energy solutions.
Under the proposed plan, the seized solar panels will be distributed in selected cities across the country. Officials have been instructed to design a transparent and workable distribution framework, and a formal distribution ceremony will be organised for the prime minister. The initiative reflects the government’s intention to convert enforcement outcomes into development opportunities, particularly in the renewable energy sector.
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting convened to review measures for improving the reliability of power supply in Gwadar and to assess progress on a 100 megawatt solar power project in Gilgit-Baltistan. The meeting focused on addressing long-standing energy shortages in remote and strategically important regions while accelerating the transition toward solar power.
During the discussion, the prime minister emphasised the strategic importance of the 40 megawatt power plant in Gwadar. He directed relevant authorities to classify the project as a strategic initiative and instructed that a summary seeking required approvals be presented before the federal cabinet within two weeks. The move is intended to ensure uninterrupted power supply in Gwadar, which holds key significance for trade, investment, and regional connectivity.
On the solarisation of Gwadar, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered a review of existing timelines for the installation of solar-powered pumping stations and desalination plants. He stressed the need for faster completion of these projects to address water scarcity and energy challenges in the coastal city. The Power Division has been tasked with submitting an updated progress report on these installations to the prime minister.
The Power Division has also been directed to provide technical and administrative support to the Balochistan government in the planning, bidding, and execution phases of solar projects in the province. This includes assistance in procurement processes and ensuring compliance with project timelines to avoid delays.
In Gilgit-Baltistan, the prime minister instructed that the results of rooftop solar project bidding be presented to him before any contracts are awarded. This step aims to enhance transparency and oversight in project implementation. Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari has been directed to ensure that Minister for Information and Broadcasting Ataullah Tarar is fully briefed on the 100 megawatt solar project so that public awareness can be raised, particularly among residents of Gilgit-Baltistan.
The prime minister further ordered a third-party validation of the 100 megawatt solar project to ensure technical soundness, cost efficiency, and transparency. Such validation is expected to strengthen investor confidence and improve project governance.
To accelerate the rooftop solar component in Gilgit-Baltistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the Power Division to revisit existing timelines and ensure early completion. He also asked officials to explore the option of dividing the 82 megawatt utility-scale solar component into smaller segments. This approach could facilitate easier bidding, encourage wider participation, and enhance competition, thereby speeding up project execution.
Additionally, the prime minister instructed the Chief Secretary of Gilgit-Baltistan to ensure timely availability of land for utility-scale solar projects. He stressed that all non-solar infrastructure work linked to these projects must be completed as per schedule to prevent bottlenecks during implementation.
The directives underline the government’s focus on expanding renewable energy capacity, improving power supply in underserved regions, and ensuring efficient utilisation of available resources. By fast-tracking solar projects and repurposing seized equipment, the government aims to reduce energy costs, improve sustainability, and support long-term economic development in strategic areas of the country.
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