The government of Pakistan has announced that there will be no loadshedding during Sehr and Iftar in Ramazan. This is a good initiative by the government.
It will also be better if loadshedding is carried out during the day time as many people rest after Iftar. Offices will also be closed early; therefore electricity consumption will be less in the evening as many ACs and splits will remain off because of the office closure.
It will also be better if the government carries out as little loadshedding as possible on Saturdays and Sundays as many offices also remain closed on these days and the demand of electricity is low.
A majority of Pakistanis observe the rituals of this holy month. Thus, it is not unreasonable to ask the government to adjust its policy for this particular month. The public understands that the electricity shortfall is here to stay but drafting a loadshedding schedule that minimises the discomfort to the people is a credible short-term solution.
MUBASHIR MAHMOOD
Karachi
