BAGH:Azad Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Energy and Water Resources Raja Saqib Majeed has said the government is committed to resolving public grievances, stressing that unrest and violence cannot ensure the smooth functioning of the state. He said gas consumption had declined by 70 per cent following the provision of electricity at Rs3 per unit, but excessive use of low-cost power was overloading the electricity system.
Speaking to the media after a review meeting of the Electricity Department at Bagh Corporation Hall on Thursday, the minister termed the Action Committee’s alleged resort to violence and confrontation instead of negotiations a serious mistake. He urged its leaders to take two unconditional steps back, end their protest and return home, emphasising that dialogue and peaceful engagement were necessary to resolve public issues.
The meeting was attended by Minister for Housing Sardar Mir Akbar Khan, the superintendent engineer, executive engineers from the four districts of Poonch Division and field staff. Departmental officials briefed the participants on the power supply situation, transmission infrastructure and operational challenges.
During the meeting, the ministers directed officials to utilise all available resources to improve the electricity network, address consumer complaints and ensure an uninterrupted power supply. Raja Saqib Majeed also urged consumers to avoid unnecessary electricity consumption to prevent further strain on the system.
The energy minister said the government stood with the public and was taking steps to address their difficulties. He added that PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif would visit Azad Jammu and Kashmir soon, followed by the implementation of the government’s 100-day plan.
Meanwhile, Bagh Municipal Corporation Mayor Major (retd) Abdul Qayyum Baig welcomed the minister on his arrival in the city for a day-long visit and hosted him during his stay.