Higher dam releases ease power system pressure

ISLAMABAD: A significant increase in water releases from the country’s dams has led to a sharp rise in hydropower generation, by 127 per cent, providing much-needed relief to the power system and reducing the duration of load management across various parts of the country. According to Power Division spokesperson, water outflows surged to 30, 000 cusecs last night, a substantial jump from 8, 000 cusecs recorded the previous night. The increased discharge translated directly into higher electricity generation from hydel sources, strengthening overall power availability. Hydropower generation rose markedly by 2, 300 megawatts, reaching 4, 100 megawatts compared to 1, 800 megawatts a day earlier. The surge in low-cost electricity not only improved supply but also enhanced grid stability, allowing better management of the transmission system. READ MORE: Move branded as ‘peak relief strategy’: Govt rolls out scheduled power outages Officials noted that the improved generation scenario facilitated the transmission of around 400 megawatts of electricity from the southern region to the central grid. This became possible as the additional hydropower reduced system constraints and stability concerns that had previously limited such transfers. The development comes at a time when electricity demand is gradually increasing, particularly from the agricultural sector. Experts believe that further increases in hydropower generation are likely in the coming days as water demand from farmers continues to rise, prompting sustained or higher releases from reservoirs. The immediate impact of the improved supply situation was seen in reduced load management hours. Authorities confirmed that the duration of outages dropped significantly from around six hours to approximately 2. 5 to 3 hours last night, offering relief to consumers who had been facing extended power cuts. Power sector officials expressed optimism that the situation would continue to improve. They pointed out that the early availability of Re-gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG), combined with increased hydropower generation, would help address the temporary challenges in load management. “The system is stabilizing as more low-cost hydel electricity comes online and fuel availability improves, ” an official said, adding that efforts are underway to ensure uninterrupted supply during peak demand periods. With favourable hydrological conditions and improved fuel supply, authorities are hopeful that load management will be further curtailed in the coming days, easing pressure on consumers and supporting economic activity. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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