Punjab government has launched practical steps to prevent short circuits and fatal accidents caused by hazardous overhead power cables, with Lahore selected for the first phase of a comprehensive underground cabling initiative. 

Chairing a special meeting, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif approved a citywide plan to remove dangling and unsafe electricity wires, directing that a pilot project be completed in the inner city ahead of Basant to avert any untoward incidents during the festival. 

The meeting reviewed proposals to divide Lahore into three zones for phased underground cabling. A decision was also taken to make underground electricity supply mandatory in all new housing schemes. The chief minister directed authorities to ensure alternative arrangements for internet and other affected services during the cabling process. 

Seeking a permanent solution to fires and loss of life caused by short circuits, CM Maryam Nawaz called for an emergency safety plan to address electrical hazards across the province.

Briefing the meeting, LESCO officials said approximately 40,000 kilometres of electricity wires and 50,000 kilometres of internet cables are spread across Lahore. 

Referring to recent tragedies, the chief minister said the government wanted to prevent incidents like the Karachi Gul Plaza fire, stressing that public safety was a fundamental responsibility of the state. She noted that exposed power cables often become a cause of accidents during rainfall, posing serious risks to citizens. Dangling electricity wires are not only visually unpleasant but a constant threat to human lives, she said. 

A steering committee has been constituted on the chief minister’s directions to oversee the initiative. The committee includes Provincial Minister Faisal Khokhar, representatives from LESCO, housing and local government departments, and senior administrative officers. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)