ECC approves solarisation of 27000 tube-wells in Balochistan
The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet has granted solarization of agricultural tubewells in Balochistan a significant funding package.
The project aims to enhance the agricultural framework of Balochistan by solarizing 27,000 agricultural tube wells. This will reduce dependence on the national grid and subsequently offer farmers a more dependable and cheaper power source.
Federal Government is expected to shoulder 70% of the cost which is approximately 55 billion rupees while the provincial government is expected to cover the remaining 30%.
Notable Facts
- The ECC has disbursed funds amounting to 24.5 billion rupees for the solarization project.
- The plan outlines that 27,000 agricultural tubewells in Balochistan will be solarized.
- 70 percent of the expenditure will be shouldered by the Federal Government.
- Electricity consumption from the national grid will be curtailed.
- Farmers will have access to inexpensive and dependable power services.
Important Aspects Of Balochistan Tubewell Solarization Project
ECC’s recent endorsement of 24.5 billion is instrumental for advancing the Balochistan Tubewell Solarization Project. Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif endorsed the project in July 2024.
Project Overview and Funding Structure
This specific project focuses on solarizing tubewells in Balochistan, thus decreasing the dependence on the national grid. Additional funds set aside as grants will be provided to complete the project. The ECC has assigned the Power Division the responsibility of supervising the project.
Disbursements Received and Timeline
This specific project began in July 2024. An additional disbursement quotes an amount of 14 billion which was received from the federal government. The Power Division is expected to deliver a status report regarding the specific account as per the ECC’s instructions. The breakdown summary depicts the numbers as follows:
| Category | Amount/Status |
|---|---|
| Total Funding Approved | Rs.24.5 billion |
| Initial Disbursement | Rs.14 billion |
| Implementation Status | Ongoing |
Solarization Of Agri Tubewells In Balochistan Receives ECC Approval
ECC has released a total of 24.5 billion for increasing efficiency towards meeting the demand and also removing the burden of maintaining 27,000 agricultural tubewells in Balochistan. The 27,000 agricultural tubewells in Balochistan will be solarized and the approved amount will ensure this goal is achieved. The project aims at substituting the electricity powered grid for irrigation purposes.
Monitoring Requirements and Key Deliverables
Execessive timeliens of the projects has been highlighted by the ECC, thereby instructing the Power division to track milestones such as the stub-out of tube-well connections with the national grid and removal of transformers, sub-trans, and bolts. Monitoring is imperative for the success of this project and the realization of the objectives encapsulated within this contract.
- Disconnection of tube-wells from the national grid
- Removal of transformers and fixtures
- Timely execution of the project
Expected Benefits for Balochistan’s Agricultural Sector
The anticipation of overcoming the challenges of solarizing 27,000 agricultural tubewells along with other auxiliary projects will catalyze considerable advancement in Balochistan’s agriculture. Farmers will realize higher profits with the reduction in carbon emission, thus national environmental goals will also be met.
The primary positive impacts are:
- Electricity-related expenditures for farmers will decrease
- Complete alleviation from load shedding and power outages
- Enhanced productivity
- Strengthening of national environmental concerns
Additional Financial Approvals and Technical Supplementary Grants
The ECC meeting went on to approve significant technical supplementary grants for many government divisions, which illustrates the Government’s emphasis on improving the institutional capacity and enhancing infrastructure development in a number of other divisions.
LNG Payment Guarantees Extension for SNGPL
The ECC has likewise sanctioned an extension of liquefied natural gas payment guarantees for SNGPL which will ensure further provision of liquefied natural gasid and will help meet the energy requirements of the country.
Funding Allocations for Various Ministries and Divisions
The ECC approved a number of technical supplementary grants aimed at strengthening other initiatives taken by the government. Some of the most significant were earmarked for the Cabinet Division to the the tune of Rs.300 million towards the operationalization of new regulatory authorities. Also approved were Rs.1.269 billion for the Finance Division pertaining to the transfer of PSDP projects and Rs.250 million to the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training for the upgradation of Sadiq Public School, Bahawalpur.
Significant other grants were also approved for the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control which included Rs.109 million for peace support contingents equipment and some smaller grants for the operational equipment of the Frontier Corps (KP) North.
The government’s commitment multilateral partnerships to the ECC’s conclusions, as discussed in the framework of their several diverse meets, showcases the control over finances that contribute to advance sustainability and responsiveness funding diverse projects and continuing country these and many to educational system refresh maintain initiatives.
Conclusion: Consequences For Pakistan’s Energy and Agricultural Domains
Achievement of another landmark in Pakistan’s energy transition occurred with the ECC giving a go-ahead of Rs.24.5 billion for solarization of agricultural tubewells in Balochistan. This project, which cost approximately 55 billion rupees, illustrates the government’s effort in overcoming the energy constraints as well as improving agricultural output through infrastructure spending on capital intensive projects.
The ECC decision integrates other neglected aspects of the growth process with priority given to execution as well as oversight. The fact that this project is complementary to a greater national goal, such us energy efficiency programs like the massive replacement of ceiling fans with energy-saving models, affirms the supportive approach of the Governement. It’s primary responsibility for this project will at the commencement of the implementation stage when the Power Division has to ensure the efficient use of money.
The same ECC meeting approving various Technical Supplementary Grants Outstanding demonstrates that Government has a focused policy to boost multiple sectors of investment in Pakistan. As it advances, the project will be evaluated for its benefits on the farmers in Balochistan as well as the overall usage of energy in the country.
FAQ
What is the purpose of Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) approval for the 24.5 Billion Rs?
The ECC approval helps in solarisation of agricultural tubewells in Balochistan. This will help in increasing the agricultural output of the region.
How will the funds be utilized for Balochistan tubewell solarization project?
These funds are intended to carry out the project which includes installation of solar energy powered tubewells to replace the currently used ones. This will ease usage of conventional energy sources.
What are the expected benefits of tubewell solarization project for the agriculture of Balochistan?
The project will increase agricultural productivity in the region, lower energy expenditure for farmers, and improve the overall development of agriculture in Balochistan.
What is the Power Division’s role in the execution of the project?
The Power Division is responsible for the implementation of the project. They have to liaise with other relevant bodies so that the funds can be transferred and the project executed smoothly.
Are there any other financial approvals or technical supplementary grants announced by ECC?
Yes, the ECC has also approved supplementary allocations and grants of a technical nature to other ministries and divisions which also include the extension of payment guarantee for LNG to SNGPL.
What is the estimated cost of the tubewell solarization project for Balochistan?
The ECC, under its last meeting, estimated the project cost as Rs.24.5 Billion.
What implications does this have on the Pakistani energy sector still remains unanswered?
With its advancement, the project nurtures a shift towards sustainable energy, helping eliminate the dependence on renewable sources of energy and supporting development.
