Monday, the 9Th August, 2021

(35th Session)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

―QUESTIONS FOR ORAL ANSWERS AND THEIR REPLIES‖

to be asked at a sitting of the National Assembly to be held on

Monday, the 9th August, 2021

96. *Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb: (Deferred during 19th Session)

Will the Minister for Law and Justice be pleased to state:

(a) the name of cities of the country in which Model Courts are working at present; and

(b) the number thereof?

Minister for Law and Justice (Dr. Muhammad Farogh Naseem): (a) & (b) The information is not available in the Ministry as setting up of Model Courts is not the initiative of the Federal Government. The Model Courts are administered by the Supreme Court of Pakistan, therefore, the Registrar, Supreme Court of Pakistan and the Federal Judicial Academy have been requested, to provide the requisite information, vide this Division’s letters dated 7th February, 2020, 26th February, 2020, 1st April, 2020, 29th April, 2020, 3rd June, 2020, 10th July, 2020, 4th September, 2020, 23rd November, 2020, 21st January, 2021, 19th February, 2021, 05th April, 2021, 14th June, 2021and 02-08-2021. Once the information is received the same will be provided to the National Assembly by this Division.

7. *Agha Hassan Baloch: (Deferred during 28th Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the district-wise ratio of area of each district of Balochistan which has facility of electricity; 2

(b) whether it is a fact that most of areas of Balochistan does not have facility of electricity;

(d) what steps are being taken by the Government to provide electricity in such areas at earliest?

Reply not received.

15. *Mr. Muhammad Afzal Khokhar: (Deferred during 28th Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that irregularities of trillions of rupees, both administrative and financial, which have been pointed out in power sector by the Government’s auditors in the year 2019-20 are confirmed proof of poor administration and Governance of incumbent Government in the power sector;

(b) whether it is also a fact that public at large had to pay the price of such institutional negligence in terms of increasing electricity tariff;

(c) if the answers to part (a) and (b) above are in affirmative, whether the responsible held accountable by departments concerned; if so, the details thereof; if not, the reasons thereof; and

(d) what corrective measures are being taken particular with reference to not transfer or shift the burden of such institutional negligence to general public?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a), (b), (c) & (d) The Government Auditors in Audit Report for the year 2019-20 has pointed out general nature audit paras which are being replied during DAC’s meetings. The audit paras are further discussed in the meetings of Public Accounts Committee and directives of the PAC are implemented accordingly. The Government Auditors undertake the audit of every Government departments. The report so furnished can be termed 3 as preliminary, as there are other forums, where the observations raised by Audit department are contested. Therefore, observations raised by audit cannot be termed as final unless or until they pass the lest of DAC and PAC.

145. *Mr. Abdul Qadir Patel: (Deferred during 28th Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the details of improvements, which were required to make in transmission system by Karachi Electricity (KE), as per agreement of privatization;

(b) whether or not such improvements were made by KE; if so, the details thereof; if not, the reasons thereof; and

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) At the outset, it needs to be underscored that K-Electric is now regulated by NEPRA and investment plans in K-Electric as well as tariff determination is decided by NEPRA. With respect to the investments in transmission system of K-Electric, Ministry of Energy (Power Division) consulted with K-Electric for response on the question. It is also mentioned here that K-Electric is vertically integrated and all the distribution, generation (excluding power supply agreed between K-Electric and Federal Government), and transmission within the jurisdiction of K-Electric is the exclusive domain of K-Electric.

In terms of Implementation Agreement, K-Electric was required to invest about Rs. 8.7 Billion for upgrading in KE’s Transmission System. As conveyed by K-Electric approximately Rs. 11 Billion have been incurred for the same by KE. Following have been done by KE for improvement of the transmission system:—

i. Addition of 19 new grid stations.

ii. Enhancement of transmission capacity by about 88% from 3,480 MVA in 2005 to 6,536 MVA. 4

iii. Significant reduction in transmission losses by about 17% points June 2021

iv. Rehabilitation of over 420 Km of old circuit length and addition of over 165 Km of EHT lines since 2009 and up-to June 2021.

(b) In addition to the above, KE rehabilitated KDA - Jamshoro lines enabling KE to draw and additional power of 450-600 MW (i.e. a total 1,100-1,200 MW) from National Grid through existing interconnections. Moreover, KE is upgrading its transmission network as well as interconnections with national grid to off-take surplus capacity of national grid bringing the total to 2,050 MW.

(c) The performance of transmission system of the K-Electric is evaluated by NEPRA and the last report published by NEPRA in this respect is for the year 2017-18.

2. *Ms. Shagufta Jumani: (Deferred during 31st Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that prices of electricity for the life line consumers has been increased in the tenure of incumbent Government;

(b) if so, the details of consumers who come under the category of life line;

(d) since when such increase has been made for the consumers of life line; and

(e) what steps are being taken by the Government to lessen the prices of electricity?

Reply not received.

20. *Ms. Shahida Rehmani: (Deferred during 31st Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the increase made by K. Electric in electricity prices from March, 2018 to March, 2021 in Karachi; and

(b) the name of the areas of Karachi where loadshedding is being carried out alongwith the duration of said loadshedding?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) A schedule of Tariff applicable to different category of consumers of K-Electric for the said period is attached as Annex-I. There is an increase of tariff by about Rs. 2 to 6 per KWh depending on the category of the consumer during the period from 2018 to March 2021.

It is also mentioned here that the Federal Government in order to incentive industry post COVID-19, granted Rs. 12.96/KWh on incremental consumption to industrial consumers of, among others, K-Electric w.e.f. Nov. 2020 to June 2021.

(b) As informed by K-Electric, presently, more than 78% of Karachi is exempt from loadshedding with 100% exemption to industries. KE carries out loadshedding in the remaining areas as per its AT&C (Aggregate Technical and Commercial) Losses based load-shed policy which is in compliance with the provisions of the National Power Policy 2013 and is also practiced by other DISCOs across the country. As explained by K-Electric, they are trying for load-shedding reduction through loss reduction initiatives, and they have set target to exempt up-to 93% of feeders from loadshedding by FY 23.

K-Electric has further informed that Loadshedding is carried out depending on the loss category of the respective feeder. The Load- shedding areas have been divided into three categories as following:—

i. Medium loss areas where load-shedding of one hour is carried out three times during a day.

ii. High Loss areas where load-shedding of two hours have been carried out three times during a day; and 6

iii. Very high loss areas where load-shedding of two and half (2.5) have been carried out three times during a day.

As informed by K-Electric, currently following are the high loss areas where load-shed of between 6 to 7.5 hours a day is carried out (in 3 spells) on feeders depending on their loss profile, as per company’s segmented load-shed policy:

(a) Gadap (b) Malir (c) Orangi (d) Baldia (e) Lyari (f) New Karachi (g) Surjani

K-Electric has further explained that within these high loss areas, there are feeders which are duly exempt from load-shedding due to better loss profiles. K-Electric has submitted that on the back of continued loss reduction initiatives, improvements have been witnessed in loss profiles resulting in load-shed reduction 2020-21.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

10. *Syed Mehmood Shah: (Deferred during 33rd Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the amount of funds issued for the construction of 132KV Grid Station in Quetta District Kallat so far;

(b) whether work on the aforesaid project is showing progress according to the prescribed schedule;

(d) the steps taken or being taken by the Government for its early completion?

Reply not received. 7

14. *Syed Mehmood Shah: (Deferred during 33rd Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Sangjani Grid Station, on the pretext of repair/maintenance has disconnected the supply of Electricity to Cabinet Division Employees Cooperative Housing Society, and the adjacent areas during the whole day for the last several months;

(b) if so, the reasons thereof; and

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) Yes. It is a fact that 11 KV Sangjani feeder supplying electricity to Cabinet Division Cooperative Housing Society and adjacent areas remained disconnected on account of annual maintenance to ensure that the same areas are served well during the Ramzan and upcoming summer season. It is further clarified that the schedule of the annual maintenance was published through print media/ newspaper. The schedule for annual maintenance for 11 KV Sangjani feeder is attached as ready reference (Annex-I).

(b) Explained as above.

(c) Annual maintenance program for FY 2020¬21 has been completed, however works for removal of safety hazards and grid maintenance are still anticipated for which the supply shall be disconnected for minimum possible time, if need be.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library)

1. *Mr. Sikandar Ali Rahoupoto: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether there is any project under consideration of the Government for generating electricity from scrap in Karachi; and 8

(b) whether there is also any programme for generating electricity from the water of filthy Nallahs; if so, the time by which it will be started?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) & (b) Government is neither considering nor generating any Electricity from scrap or from water of filthy Nallahs.

7. *Moulana Abdul Akbar Chitrali: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state the function, performance of PEPCO and NEPRA during the last five years alongwith year-wise names of the Board of Directors, qualifications and expertise in the relevant field and age?

Reply not received.

11. *Mr. Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that in lieu of clause (2) of Article 63-A that permits to a member of a House having been elected otherwise than as a candidate or nominee of a political party, to become a member of a Parliamentary Party after such election by means of a declaration in writing, several members of the Senate, who were elected otherwise than as a candidate of a political party in the Senate’s Election, which was held in March, 2018, joined a political party of their choice;

(b) if so, the details of such members;

(c) whether Election Commission of Pakistan intimated the Senate Secretariat about the joining of a political party by such members intimated to;

(d) if so, the details thereof; if not, the reasons thereof?

Deferred for answer on Next Rota Day. 9

14. *Syed Mehmood Shah: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the areas of Districts Surab, Kalat and Mastung where the facility of electricity is not available; if so, the reasons thereof;

(b) the funds allocated for the rural areas of Balochistan, during the last three years alongwith those out of the same which were released and practically utilized for the provision of electricity;

(d) the time by which electricity will be supplied to the areas of above said districts which are deprived of the electricity?

Reply not received.

15. *Nawab Muhammad Yousuf Talpur: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that HESCO vide its letter No.CEO/ HESCO/M(HRM)/H.Q/CM/2242 dated 19-05-2020 followed by series of reminders dated 10-07-2020, 26-08-2020, 06-10-2020, 26-10-2020 and 20-11-2020 but HR, PEPCO has not replied so far to HESCO causing delay in deciding pending cases of various officers of HESCO;

(b) the reasons for not responding by HR, PEPCO despite of lapse of more than 7 (seven) months, person(s) responsible for causing delay and proposed action to be taken against person(s) at fault; and

Reply not received. 10

20. *Syed Mehmood Shah: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Communications be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that practical work could not be started on Chaman-Quetta-Karachi Road in spite of claims of Government;

(b) whether it is also a fact that Government intends to construct the said road on BOT basis;

(d) the detail of funds allocated for said road during the last three years;

(e) the detail of funds released for the said project alongwith the funds spent on project; and

(f) the time by which the work on said road would be started?

Minister for Communications (Mr. Murad Saeed): (a) Progress on all three sections as per commitment of the Government on Chaman- Quetta-Karachi Road project is as under:

Khuzdar-Chaman The detailed design & Preliminary commercial feasibility study for Section this section has been completed.

Karachi-Khuzdar Detailed design & commercial feasibility study for this section is in Section progress and is likely to be completed in July, 2021. Depending upon the, feasibility study results of Karachi-Khuzdar section, the commercially viable sections of N-25 shall be taken through PPP mode and approval process for their PC-I shall he initiated followed by procurement of concessionaire under PP arrangement. Khuzdar-Quetta The Preliminary commercial feasibility study for this section is not Section viable on PPP mode, therefore, NHA has taken up this section on GoP funding.

(b) & (c) Yes, Government of Pakistan, National Highway Authority intends to dualize and rehabilitate route N-25 under Public Private Partnership (PPP) on Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) basis. Due to financial constraints, GoP/NHA intends to undertake the project on PPP/BOT basis.

However, due to non-viability of Khuzdar-Quetta section on PPP mode, GoP/NHA has taken up this section on GoP funding.

(d) & (e) PSDP 2020-21 Nil PSDP 2019-20 PKR 500 Million (Allocated for feasibility study plus land acquisition) PSDP 2018-19 Nil

(f) Depending upon the, feasibility study results, the commercially viable sections of N-25 shall be taken through PPP mode and approval process for their PC-I shall be initiated followed by procurement of concessionaire under PPP arrangement.

It is anticipated that the project sections on PPP mode shall be awarded by February, 2022.

23. *Mr. Saad Waseem: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the percentage of life line consumers of each DISCO at present;

(b) the procedure adopted to subsidies the consumers of the electricity;

(c) whether it is a fact that the tariff structure does not match the consumption pattern of poor households because of low cut- off points for life line consumers;

(d) whether it is also a fact that poor households have not been received the major chunk of subsidies; if so, the reasons for not evolving an integrated tariff structure to benefit the poor households under the head of such subsidies; 12

(e) what steps are being taken by the Government in this regard;

(f) whether it is also fact that other power sectors are subsidized;

(g) if so, the detail of such power sectors alongwith year-wise amount reserved against each during the last four fiscal years?

Reply not received.

24. *Rana Sana Ullah Khan: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) Sub-Division-wise number of transformers that either burnt or got faults since August, 2018;

(b) the date upon which each transformer got fault and date upon which, each of above repaired and installed back;

(d) if so, is there any assessment has been made in recent times to rationalize the electricity load on transformers in aforesaid constituency; if so, the details thereof; if not, the reasons thereof;

(e) if such assessment has been made, the stage-wise time frame, in which load management on the transformers in aforesaid constituency will be rationalize?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) & (b) Detailed list of Sub Division-wise transformers that burnt or got faults since August, 2018 alongwith dates upon which fault occurred and the date of repair / installed back is attached as Annex-A.

Capacity Numbers 50 KVA 2 100 KVA 14 200 KVA 20 (Detail is attached as Annex-B)

To replace the overloaded transformers, LT proposals & Chain Augmentation Cases have been processed and shall be excluded at the earliest.

(d) FESCO has allocated budget in Energy Loss Reduction (ELR) and Distribution of Power (DOP) by generating LT Proposals and Chain Augmentations to save the asset. FESCO has spent money to avoid over loading of Distribution Transformer by allocating budget. The following detail depicts the works completed in NA-106 to avoid the damage to Distribution Transformers.

Head 2018-19 2019-20 2020-21 LT Proposals 14 25 16 Chain Proposals 32 28 12

Detail of Chain Augmentations is attached as Annex-C.

(e) It is submitted that augmentation of overloaded transformers is a continuous process. Every month a number of Transformers are augmented which become overloaded.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

142. *Mr. Naveed Aamir Jeeva:

Will the Minister for Science and Technology be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of ventilators developed or made by the entities of the Ministry till date; and

(b) details of places where the said ventilators are provided and being utilized?

Minister for Science and Technology (Syed Shibli Faraz): (a) 08 industrial grade versions of ventilators have been devised by both public and private sector. 02 out of 08 ventilators are devised by National University of Science and Technology, (NUST) and National University of Technology (NUTECH), organizations working under the aegis of Ministry of Science and Technology. Large scale production of ventilators will be started after registration and approval by Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) working under Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination. Details of 08 Ventilators is at (Annex – I).

Ministry of Science and Technology, Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote local manufacturing of medical devices and Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) has been notified by DRAP to carry out technical performance evaluation of locally manufactured medical devices prior to DRAP registration.

(b) Out of 08 industrial grade versions of ventilators, the final version of i-live Vent prepared by Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) has been provided to PAEC Hospital, Islamabad for utilization at their own level.

143. *Syed Hussain Tariq:

Will the Minister for Law and Justice be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has taken notice that Ministry of Law have failed to update the laws enacted by the Parliament and also subordinate legislation on their website which is known as “Pakistan Code”;

(b) if so, the details thereof alongwith the reasons for not uploading the Laws/Rules;

(c) what steps are being taken to upload/up-to-date the Laws/Rules daily basis alongwith all of amendments which have been made in said laws on their website, at an earliest; and

(d) the time by which said Laws/Rules will be updated with all respective amendments?

Minister for Law and Justice (Dr. Muhammad Farogh Naseem): (a), (b) & (c) The website https://pakistancode.gov.pk is running since January 2020. All primary legislation has been updated on the website till now. While updation of subordinate legislation is in progress.

(d) All Laws/Rules with amendments will be expected to be updated within six months.

144. *Sheikh Fayyaz Ud Din:

Will the Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the number of Gas projects which are remaining/pending for the past ten years; and

(b) the level up-to which an implementation of the said projects took place, since the agreements of said projects had already been made or executed; if not reasons of such non- implementation?

Minister for Petroleum Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) Inter State Gas Systems (ISGS) has been entrusted by the Government of Pakistan to implement the gas import and infrastructure Projects. The list of gas projects under development are as under:

• Iran Pakistan Gas Pipeline Project

• Pak Stream Gas Pipeline Project (previously known as North South Gas Pipeline Project)

• Turkmenistan Afghanistan Pakistan India Gas Pipeline Project

• Strategic Underground Gas Storage Project

• South North Gas Pipeline Project

(b) Iran Pakistan Gas Pipeline Project

ISGS is undertaking development of IPGP on behalf of Government of Pakistan. Gas Sales and Purchase Agreement was signed between Iran and Pakistan on 5th June 2009. The agreement became effective in June 2010 after fulfillment of conditions precedents by both sides. Subsequently, Operations Agreement was signed between Iran and Pakistan on 16th March 2010. Following milestones has been achieved: 17

• Approval of pipeline route corridor obtained from the Ministry of Defense.

• Project development activities including Bankable Feasibility Study, Front End Engineering Design (FEED), Route Reconnaissance and Detailed Route Survey (DRS), Social Environmental impact Assessment (SEIA) and Installation of concrete markers on Right of Way has been completed.

• Environmental approvals obtained from the EPAs of Baluchistan and Sindh.

The implementation of the Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline Project is halted due to international sanctions on Iran and further development is subject to ease of sanctions in view of current geo-political situation in the region.

Pak Stream Gas Pipeline Project (previously known as North South Gas Pipeline Project.

Government of Pakistan and the Russian Federation entered into G-to-G Agreement (IGA) on the Cooperation for the Development the Project on 16th October 2015. The project delayed on account of non- finalization of sanction free project structure by the Russian side.

The Hon’ble Supreme Court of Pakistan vide its judgment dated 13th August, 2020 in the matter of GIDC Act, 2015 directed the Federal Government to take all steps to commence work on the laying of the North-South pipeline within 6 months.

Accordingly MOE-PD planned to undertake the laying of about 1100 KM long gas pipeline from Karachi to Kasur proposal with revised structure.

Protocol on the amendments to the IGA signed in Moscow on 28th May 2021.

As per protocol to the IGA, a Special Purpose Company (SPC) shall be incorporated in Pakistan, wherein Pakistan shall have majority shareholder. Equity financing by Pakistan side is up to the tune of 74% of total project cost. Remaining 26% equity to be contributed by Russian Nominated Entity. The Russian Nominated Entity has been incorporated by the Russian Federation.

Ministry of Defence has issued the Route corridor approval for PSGP project. OGRA has issued construction and transmission licence to ISGS.

During the 3rd Joint Technical Committee (JTC) meeting held in Islamabad between Pakistan and Russia from 12-15th July 2021 wherein Heads of Terms (HOTs) of Shareholders Agreement (SHA) has been signed by the Parties.

Next Joint Technical Committee meeting is planned to be held within 30 days to exchange information on the project implementation status, set technical specification and prepare a project road map after the signing on the SHA.

Turkmenistan Afghanistan Pakistan India Gas Pipeline Project (TAPI)

The Turkmenistan — Afghanistan — Pakistan — India (TAPI) Gas Pipeline Project aims to bring natural gas from the Galkynysh and adjacent gas fields in Turkmenistan to Afghanistan, Pakistan and India Following key milestones have been achieved:

• Agreements Concluded:

o Gas Pipeline Framework Agreement (GPFA) – (2010). o Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) – 2010. o Gas Sales and Purchase Agreement (GSPA) – 2013. o Operation Agreement (OA) – 2014. o Share Holders Agreement (SHA) – 2015. o Investment Agreement (IA) – 2016. 19

• TAPI Pipeline Company Limited (TPCL) has been incorporated. Pakistan’s share @ 5% is estimated at US $ 200 million and will be funded from Gas Infrastructure Development Cess (GIDC).

• The Front End Engineering and Design (FEED) has been completed.

• Ministry of Defence has issued the TAPI Route approval.

• OGRA has issued construction and transmission licence to ISGS.

• The Punjab Environment Protection Agency (PEPA) and Baluchistan Environment Protection Agency (BEPA) have issued the NOCs for the Project.

Following activities are in process,—

• The full form of TAPI Host Government Agreement (HGA) is currently being negotiated with TPCL in consultation with concerned ministries.

• Approval to Limited FID for Early Works (including Herat Offtake) is in process.

• Negotiations on GSPA issues i.e. Delivery Point, Gas Price is in process.

• Draft MOU on Land Acquisition Service Agreement (LASA) is under review.

Strategic Underground Gas Storage Project (SUGS)

A Feasibility Study on the development of Underground Gas Storages (Project) in Pakistan was conducted by the Consultant (SOFREGAZ France) on the directions of MOE-PD, which was funded by 20

Asian Development Bank in 2007. Further progress on the project stalled due to non-availability of excess gas.

Presently, the said feasibility study is being updated by ADB appointed Consultant.

Following progress on the project has been achieved:

• The Consultant has submitted the draft Feasibility Report on 29th June 2021. Final feasibility study is expected to be completed by mid of August 2021.

• Ministry of Planning accorded concept approval for PSDP funding for FY 2021-22.

• The CDWP in its meeting held on 27th May 2021 approved the PC-II to conduct bankable feasibility study and transaction advisory.

Following activities are in process;

• Approval of Feasibility study conducted by M/s Ramboll-- Denmark is in process.

• ISGS in consultation with PPP Authority (P3A) is exploring the prospects for structuring of PPP/ Private investment, as per CDWP decision.

South North Gas Pipeline Project (SNGP)

ISGS and Power China International Group Limited (PCIGL) signed an MOU on 9th April 2018 to implement the Project on BOOT basis. Under the MOU, PCIGL was responsible to prepare a feasibility study at their own cost.

PCIGL has submitted final feasibility study on 12th June 2021 which is under review by the stakeholders.

145. *Ms. Mussarat Rafiq Mahesar:

Will the Minister for Science and Technology be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that there are 62 percent dangerous chemicals in underground water in Bahawalpur in accordance with reported by the Pakistan Council of Research of Water Resources and same water is being used by the people of Bahawalpur which is causing many diseases;

(b) whether it is also a fact that same situation is in other areas of the country including my Constituency; and

Minister for Science and Technology (Syed Shibli Faraz): (a) PCRWR is undertaking the periodic water quality monitoring of major cities of Pakistan including Bahawalpur since 2001. The monitoring of Bahawalpur city in 2020 has revealed that 24 sources (76%) were unsafe for drinking purpose. The major contaminants of the drinking water were arsenic (28%), iron (36%), fluoride and bacteria (20%) (Table-I mentioned under Annex-I).

Arsenic is the health concerning chemical contaminant detected in 7 of the 24 groundwater of Bahawalpur city. Long term consumption of arsenic beyond the safe level may result in various health implications. The first symptoms of long-term exposure to high levels of inorganic arsenic are usually observed in the skin, and include pigmentation changes, skin lesions and hard patched on the palms and soles of the feet (hyper Keratosis). These at later stages may result in developing skin cancer. Long-term exposure to arsenic may also cause cancers of the bladder and lungs. Location wise results of arsenic in groundwater of Bahawalpur city are given at (Annex-II).

Water quality monitoring over the years shows no considerable improvement up till 2015 in the Bahawalpur city. In 2020, there is some improvement in drinking water quality due to installation of filtration plants (Figure-I mentioned under Annex-I).

(b) The water quality monitoring (2020-21) of other 28 cities of the country has revealed the prevalence of bacteriological contamination 22

(39%) followed by arsenic (8%), nitrate (4%), fluoride (4%) etc. Overall, 38% of the monitored water sources were found safe for drinking in 29 main cities. An overall picture of the water sources beyond the safe limits of water quality parameters is given at (Annex-III). The water quality monitoring of district Dadu undertaken by the PCRWR (2017-18) revealed that 91 (89%) of the 112 monitored water sources were unsafe for drinking purpose mainly due to bacterial contamination, Total Dissolved Solids (53%), Turbidity (45%), Total Hardness (22%) Arsenic (10%), Fluoride (07%). Details may be seen at Annex-IV Table–4.

(c) The matter pertains to the Provincial Governments. However, the periodic water quality monitoring reports of PCRWR were published and shared with the Federal Authorities and Provincial & local Governments for undertaking improvement measures at their end.

Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library).

146. *Sheikh Fayyaz Ud Din:

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the number of functional and non functional Power Houses in the country at present; and

(b) whether the Power Houses of Jamshoro. Lakhar, Kotri Muzafargarh, Gudu are functional; if not, the reasons thereof?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) A list of functional and non-functional Power Houses /- connected with NTDC System, is attached at Annexure-I.

(b) Jamshoro, Muzaffargarh and Guddu Power Houses are functional and are given despatch in accordance with Economic Merit Order, as per System Load Demand, fuel availability, technical and commercial availability of the units.

However, Lakhra and Kotri Power Houses are non-functional as their generation license has been cancelled by NEPRA.

GHCL Reply:

The Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCoE) during its meeting held on 10.09.2020 decided closure of GENCOs power plants / units as per following details:

Power Plants approved to be closed immediately:

Name of Present Power Station / Block Unit Nos. GENCO Capacity (MW) TPS Jamshoro . 2 & 3 340 I GTPS Kotri 3 to 7 110 Block 3 and 4 1 to 4 450 II TPS Quetta 6 22 TPS Muzaffargarh 5 & 6 355 II SPS Faisalabad 1 & 2 97 GTPS Faisalabad 1 to 4 75 Ill FBC Lakhra 1 & 2 70 _ IV NGPS Piranghaib Multan 1, 3 & 4 192 111 . GTPS Kotri 1 to 6 85 TOTAL: 1796

Power Plants to be retained for system requirements:

GENCO Power Unit Present Capacity Remarks Station Nos. (MW) /Block I TPS 1 & 4 400 To be retained till COD of first Jamshoro unit of Coal fired power project. Tentative date for which is September-2022.

II GE Block 5 to 10 600 To be retained till September- 2022. However, Power Division will come up with phasing out plan within two weeks. Siemens 11 to 13 415 To be closed till restoration of Block Steam Turbine (ST). III TPS 1 to 4 920 To be retained till September Muzaffargarh 2022. However, Power GTPS 5 to 9 140 Division will come up with Faisalabad phasing out plan within two weeks.

TOTAL: 2475 24

It is also mentioned here that following GENCO's power plants will remain functional:

GENCO Power Station / Block Unit Nos. Present Capacity (MW) II 747 MW, CCPP Guddu 14, 15 & 16 747

III 525 MW, CCPP Nandipur 1 - 4 525 Total 1272

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library).

147. *Ms. Shahida Rehmani:

Will the Minister for Foreign Affairs be pleased to state what is Government strategy regarding Pak-Afghan relations in particular post US withdrawal situation alongwith details thereof?

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Hussain Qureshi): Pakistan attaches high importance to its bilateral relations with Afghanistan. Pakistan shares 2600 km long border with Afghanistan. The importance of bilateral relations is manifest in regular high level exchanges. Prime Minister Imran Khan visited Kabul in November 2020. Despite COVID-19 pandemic, Pakistan opened its border to facilitate trade and movement of Afghan nationals. Pakistan also assisted the Afghan government in deepening trade relations by opening new border crossing points and revising Customs and clearance procedures, and forging closer people-to-people contacts through revised visa policy. We have also continued to engage with the Afghan government at all established forums such as APAPPS and APTTA. Pakistan has pursued a policy of reaching out to all Afghan stakeholders and promoting peaceful resolution of the Afghan conflict. Pakistan assisted the U.S.- Taliban direct negotiations and subsequent Intra-Afghan Negotiations (IAN). We have been urging the Afghan leadership to engage meaningfully in the IAN. Pakistan has always maintained that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan. Pakistan supports an inclusive, broad based and comprehensive negotiated settlement through an Afghan-owned and Afghan-led process. Pakistan wants to see a prosperous Afghanistan at peace with itself and its neighbours. The U.S. has announced to withdraw forces from Afghanistan by August 2021. At present, the situation in Afghanistan is rapidly evolving. Pakistan has been urging Afghan leaders to work towards reduction in 25 violence and resume IAN at the earliest. Pakistan shares international community's concern on the high level of violence. A sustained international support to the peace process is critical. 148. *Ms. Mussarat Rafiq Mahesar:

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether there is any possibility to end the loadshedding during the present Government tenure; and

(b) the quantum of electricity used on daily basis in the country at present?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) Due to hectic efforts and well planning of the government, at present, smooth supply of electricity is being ensured in the country and no load shedding is being carried out in the country due to Generation Shortfall. Installed Generation Capacity is sufficient enough to meet the System Load Demand. As on 26-7-2021, Installed Generation Capacity is 37,261 MW, Derated Generation Capacity is 33,566 MW, expected Peak Generation Capability is 24,400 MW and Maximum System Generation during Peak Hours on 8-7-2021 was 24,005 MW at 21:00 hours. The Government is well aware of the importance of supplying uninterrupted power supply and best possible efforts are made to meet the system load demand, which is evident from the recorded maximum generation 24,303 MW on 9.7.2021 at 14:00 hours. However, high system load demand is persisting due to hot weather and as a result, some of the network equipment becomes overloaded. Resultantly load management for very short duration is carried to avoid any damage to the network equipment and to keep the power system stability and security intact. Presently load management is being carried out by DISCOs on the basis of their Aggregate Technical and Commercial (AT&C) losses recorded on each feeder, given as under:

CATEGORY I II III IV V VI VII AT&C LOSSES Upto10 % 10- 20- 30- 40- 60- 80.1 20% 30% 40% 60% 80% 100% LOAD Zero Zero 02 Hrs 04 Hrs 08 Hrs 12 Hrs 16 Hrs MANAGEMENT (HOURS)

Note: Zero load management hours are being further relaxed for Category-III also by the DISCOs as per their daily allocated quota by NPCC.

(b) Quantum of electricity used on daily basis in the country (since 1-7-2021) is attached herewith as Annexure-I.

149. *Mr. Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhary:

Will the Minister for Parliamentary Affairs be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Election Commission of Pakistan has initiated inquiry to probe alleged corrupt practices of different Government functionaries in bye-elections conducted in Constituency NA-75 to make the responsible accountable;

(b) if so, the details thereof and what is present status of said inquiry; and

Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs (Mr. Ali Muhammad Khan): (a) Yes. Two fact finding inquiries have been initiated to probe alleged corrupt practices of different Government functionaries in bye-election conducted in Constituency NA-75.

(b) Both inquiries are under process.

150. *Dr. Nafisa Shah:

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state the details of all the rental power plants and their status of operation?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): As per Supreme Court of Pakistan's decision in rental power case dated 31-03-2012 vide which all the rental power projects were cancelled ab-initio. Currently, there is no rental power plant in operation Pakistan.

151. *Mr. Abdul Qadir Patel:

Will the Minister for Science and Technology be pleased to state:

(a) what are the names of Pakistan’s research institutions, which deal in applied chemistry and drug discovery, of whom patents have been registered in USA;

(b) whether such patents have been or being used in new products either abroad or in the country; and

(c) the details of new drugs which have actually been discovered by using commercialization of such patents or being used by any pharmaceutical company in abroad or at local levels in the country presently?

Minister for Science and Technology (Syed Shibli Faraz): (a) There are many Institutions and Universities doing Research in the area of Applied Chemistry and Drug discovery. However, Pakistan Council for Scientific & Industrial Research (PCSIR) and National University of Science & Technology (NUST) working under the administrative control of Ministry of Science & Technology are conducting research in the field of Applied Chemistry and Pharmaceuticals/Drug discovery. Detail of patents obtained is as under:

1. PCSIR:

PCSIR has conducted research in pharmaceuticals and has obtained/ published 02 international patents which are listed below:

• A Process for the Preparation of “Urchym” a Urease and a— Chymotrypsin Enzyme Inhibitory Drug — published in USA- (US0221214-A1) in 2008.

• A Process for the Preparation of “Gescham” a Urease and a- Chymotrypsin Enzyme Inhibitory Drug — granted in UK- (GB2443892) in 2010.

2. NUST:

The NUST has obtained the following 4 patents in the field of Applied Chemistry which have been registered internationally.

• Novel Nano Catalyst System for the Protection of Fast Track Bio-Diesel Derived from non-edible oil patented in USA- (US 2011/0209389 Al) in 2011.

• Novel process and catalyst for carbon dioxide conversion to energy generation products patented in USA- (US2008287555) in 2012.

• Novel Catalyst to Manufacture Carbon Nanotubes and Hydrogen Gas patented in USA-(US 2009/0208403 Al) in 2011.

• Catalyst and Methods for the Production of Biodiesel patented (WO 2013/006968 Al) in 2013.

(b) the above-mentioned patents are not in use of any product in abroad or in the country.

152. *Ms. Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:

Will the Minister for Human Rights be pleased to state:

(a) the number of persons with disabilities in Islamabad according to the latest population census indicating also the categories of such disabilities;

(b) the details of social benefits, facilities being provided to the disabled persons under the Disabled Persons Employement and Rehabilitation Ordinance, 1981, indicating also the details of those schemes, providing the benefits as announced by the Government for such people during the last five years;

(d) the time by which such facilities will be provided to them?

Minister for Human Rights (Dr. Shireen M Mazari): (a) The data of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Islamabad according to the 30 latest Population Census, 2017 obtained from Pakistan Bureau of Statistics is as under:

Population Male Female Total Total Population 1,052,328 950,760 2,003,088 Disabled Population 3,743 2,378 6,121

The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics has also provided the following details concerning categories of PWDs as per Pakistan Social And Living Standards Measurement (PSLM) Survey 2019-20:

Disability(%) Functional limitation (Disability included) (%) Seeing 0.23 1.05 Hearing 0.17 0.54 Walking or Climbing Steps 0.60 1.82 Concentration 0.05 0.51 Washing all over or Dressing 0.06 0.40 Communication 0.08 0.24 More than one 2.38 4.63 Total 3.58 9.19

It is necessary to mention here that the “Disabled Persons (Employment & Rehabilitation) Ordinance, 1981” has been repealed to the extent of ICT after promulgation of the “ICT Rights of Persons with Disability Act, 2020". The Government of Pakistan has taken number of steps for providing the following social benefits and facilities to the PWDs:

• The Council on Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) has been established as a sole authority for the issuance of disability certificates to the PWDs at ICT level.

• NADRA issues Special CNICs with universal logo of disability only to the holders of disability certificates.

• 2% disability quota reserved for PWDs in employment is being implemented.

• PWDs’ are given concession in air and rail fares.

• Free medical treatment is provided to PWDs and their dependants in Government hospitals/dispensaries. 31

• Sehat Sahulat Cards are being issued to all PWDs.

• PWDs are allowed to appear in CSS examination in all groups.

• PWDs are entitled for import of duty free cars.

• PWDs are given individual financial assistance by the Government.

• PWDs are provided vocational training facilities to make them self-reliant through skill development.

• Awareness campaigns are carried out in electronic media through PEMRA.

(d) The facilities mentioned in part (b) of the Reply are already being provided.

153. *Raja Pervaiz Ashraf:

Will the Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether concerned departments have taken notice that petroleum companies particularly which are operating in Tehsil Gujar Khan, District Rawalpindi do not contribute in community welfare; if so, the details thereof;

(b) whether it is a fact that operations of such petroleum companies destroy investigative of the local area;

(d) if not, then what action will be taken to make the responsible accountable as early as possible?

Minister for Petroleum Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) Two Exploration and Production Companies i.e. Oil and Gas 32

Development Company Limited (OGDCL) and Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) are operating in Tehsil Gujar Khan, District Rawalpindi.

Missa Keswal Lease is operated by OGDCL while Adhi Mining Lease is operated by PPL which are governing under Rules 1986 and 1949, respectively.

Since no Petroleum Concession Agreement/Policy is applicable on the both Leases. Therefore, there is no Social Welfare Obligation applicable in both of these Leases.

(b) No. Both of the Companies are conducting voluntary Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities on their own initiatives in the area for the lasting benefits of the locals. Since 2014-2015 to 2020-2021, OGDCL and PPL have spent 10.79 million and 147.86 million, respectively. Detail in this regard is attached at Annex-A.

(d) Not Applicable

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library).

154. *Nawabzada Iftakhar Ahmed Khan Babar:

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that funds were reserved for construction of a grid station at Shah Jamal District Mazaffargarh in recent years;

(b) whether it is also a fact that despite allocating funds for the said grid station physical work could not be started;

(d) if funds were reserved for said grid station where were such funds gone; and

(e) what steps are being taken to start physical work on such grid station?

Reply Not Received.

155. *Ms. Nafeesa Inayatullah Khan Khattak:

Will the Minister for Human Rights be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the Ministry has formulated a National Action Plan (NAP) on Business and Human Rights;

(b) if so, the details and purpose of such plan?

Minister for Human Rights (Dr. Shireen M. Mazari): (a) Yes, the Ministry of Human Rights has drafted a National Action Plan (NAP) on Business and Human Rights which has been shared with the relevant Federal and Provincial Government Departments for their input/ comments. After incorporating the stakeholders’ input, the final draft will be presented before the Federal Cabinet for approval.

(b) The National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (NAP) is a policy document, which proposes actions for Federal and Provincial Governments to support the protection of human rights within business activity. The NAP has been prepared through a consultative process taking on board the relevant stakeholders from Government, civil society, business community and academia, etc. across the country. NAP proposes various actions concerning the enactment, strengthening and implementation of legislation and policies, as well as institutional and enforcement mechanisms through eight priority areas.

156. *Mr. Muhammad Afzal Khokhar:

Will the Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether Government has taken notice of current Gas crisis of the country; if so, the details thereof; and

(b) what corrective measures are being taken to awert such crisis in coming days and ensure smooth supply of natural gas on coming winter?

Minister for Petroleum Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) In view of the depleting indigenous gas supplies in the country, both the gas utility companies i.e. SNGPL and SSGCL are HOW supplementing the gas requirements through supply of RLNG to its consumers. It is pertinent to mention that there are two LNG terminals in the county with the contracted regasification capacity of 1,200 MMCFD (600 MMCFD each from both terminals). Operator of Terminal-1 (i.e. Engro Elengy, Terminal Private Limited) had informed that its terminal required certain maintenance activities (dry docking) due to which 600 MMCFD of regasification facility would not be available for few days. This activity was initially planned during August 2021, however, later on due to some unavoidable circumstances as indicated by Engro Elengy Terminal Private Limited (i.e. validity or class certificates of FSRU till 30th June 2021), this activity was carried, on from 29th June 2021 to 6th July 2021. During this time following Steps Were taken to mitigate the situation:

Annual Turn Around (ATA) of Qadirpur gas field was planned frond 1st July 2021 Approximate impact of ATA was 106 MMCFD. This ATA was postponed to the end of July 2021:

The shortfall resulted due to dry docking was mitigated through curtailment of gas/ RLNG to CNG, Fertilizer and General Industry as per priority order approved by the ECC. While supplies were insure to high priority domestic, commercial, power and export oriented sectors.

(b) In order to avert such situation several steps are being taken/under consideration such as utilization of excess capacity of LNG terminals, construction of LNG terminals by the private sector, gas storages, construction of Pakistan Stream Gas Pipeline, with the collaboration of Russian consortium and award of new exploration blocks.

157. *Mr. Sikandar Ali Rahoupoto:

Will the Minister for Communiatcions be pleased to state the names of Motorways in Sindh where construction work is still in progress?

Minister for Communications (Mr. Murad Saeed): Request For Proposals (RFP) pertaining to Sukkur - Hyderabad Motorway (M-6) on Private-Public- Partnership (PPP) mode has been floated. 35

158. *Ms. Shagufta Jumani:

Will the Minister for Law and Justice be pleased to state that what steps are being taken to bring reforms for ensuring inexpensive and expeditious justice to the public?

Minister for Law and Justice (Dr. Muhammad Farogh Naseem): Bringing reforms for ensuring inexpensive and expeditious justice is amongst the top most priorities of the present Government. In order to review existing laws and propose new areas of legislation with focus to ensure inexpensive and speedy justice the Federal Government has constituted three task forces to review civil, criminal and NAB laws. Moreover a Special Committee has been constituted to set up legal aid mechanisms for the poor and vulnerable sections of society.

Additionally, the following legislation has been passed/ introduced:-

i. The Letters of Administration and Succession Certificates Act, 2020

The object of this legislation is to facilitate the heirs of the deceased in obtaining succession certificate and letter of administration without approaching any judicial forum. NADRA, wherever it has a citizen database and there is no dispute amongst the legal heirs after inviting public objections in newspapers, can on its own issue Letters of Administration and Succession Certificates. This legislation will curb fraudulent practices prevalent in the civil courts to usurp the rightful inheritance of an heir of the deceased.

Through this legislation, wherever, NADRA has a Citizen Database, and there is no dispute amongst the legal heirs, it may, after inviting public objections in newspapers, issue Letters of Administration and Succession Certificates, without the need of approaching courts. This law will also prevent fraudulent practices where there are no facilities to swear affidavits through a bio-metric NADRA facility.

ii. The Enforcement of Women’s Property Rights Act, 2020

Rights of ownership of women in inheritance are violated usually by their family members by means of coercion, fraud, fabrication, forgery 36 and cheating etc. This Act is to provide for an effective and speedy redressal mechanism to protect and secure the rights of ownership of women in property.

iii. The Code of Civil Procedure (Amendment) Act, 2020

This amendment in the Code of Civil Procedure is aimed towards expeditious disposal of cases. In order to curb delays in civil matters a two-tier system has been introduced where two different judges will hear the same suit. The substantive part of the case would be heard by one judge and will not be halted till finalization of the proceedings. Interlocutory applications, if any, are going to be adjudicated by a different judge. Reforms are also in place with regard to filing of plaints, service of summons, filing of written statement, case management system, commission for recording of evidence, appeals, introduction of spot checks by Presiding Officer and limiting unnecessary discretion of courts and restriction in granting of adjournments and subjecting the parties at fault to heavy penalties in the shape of costs.

iv. The Legal Aid and Justice Authority Act, 2020

The object of this Act is to establish a legal and institutional framework to promote access to justice by providing affordable, accessible, sustainable, credible and accountable legal aid, financial or other services to the poor and vulnerable section of society in criminal matters. This will also help to promote legal awareness, education and public awareness of the legal aid system. The Act gives priority to vulnerable segments of society i.e. women and children, especially in matters of sexual offences. Apart from the provision of legal aid, the Act also facilitates extension of financial facilities to the under-privileged for provision of bail, fine and penalty amounts.

v. Muslim Family Law (Amendment) Bill, 2019 (Section 4)

The purpose of this Bill is to protect the inheritance rights of a childless widow following Fiqa-e-Jafria, ensuring due share of inheritance from the deceased husband’s property.

vi. Muslim Family Law (Amendment) Bill, 2019 (Section 7)

This legislation will allow followers of Fiqa-e-Jafria to settle their matters of talaq according to their own interpretation of Fiqh. 37

159. *Moulana Abdul Akbar Chitrali:

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that under the Rules of Business, 1973 each Division has to prepare Annual Book of performance;

(b) if so, the reasons for not preparing the Book; and

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a), (b) & (c) Yes, under Rule 25 (2) of the Rules of Business, “At the beginning of each financial year, each Division shall, for the information of the Cabinet and for general public, prepare and upload on its websites as a permanent record a Year Book”. In this regard Power Division has prepared and uploaded Year Book 2019-20 on its website www.mowp.gov.pk.

160. *Mr. James Iqbal:

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state the locations of the country where wind energy is being produced along-with the daily quantum of the same thereof?

Reply Not Received.

161. *Choudhary Faqir Ahmad:

Will the Minister for Law and Justice be pleased to state:

(a) being a Custodian of Dam Fund, honorable Supreme Court of Pakistan that how does collection of dam funds which is made by different authorized agencies such as cellular phone companies, Pakistan Railways, banks and also by any other means, how which is periodically reconciled;

(b) whether any amount from such funds were used on foreign visits of any person;

Minister for Law and Justice (Dr. Muhammad Farogh Naseem): (a), (b) & (c) Since the Hon’ble Supreme Court of Pakistan is the custodian of the Dam Fund, needful information has been sought from the Registrar, Hon’ble Supreme Court of Pakistan vide Law & Justice Division’s letter dated 26th August, 2021 (Annex). The same is awaited. As soon as the information is received, the same will be provided to the National Assembly, accordingly.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library).

162. *Syed Agha Rafiullah:

Will the Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division) be pleased to state:

(a) details of either new schemes of providing natural Gas or extension in existing set up for provision of natural Gas have been or to be carried out in SNGPL and SSGC, particularly during the financial years 2018-19, 2019-20 and 2020-21, separately;

(b) the exact location of the area, where such schemes have been or to be made, and the name of the National Assembly Constituency, in which such area falls;

(d) whether there is any role of sitting MNA in such schemes?

Minister for Petroleum Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) The details of new schemes and extensions in existing setup for provision of natural gas carried out or to be undertaken during the financial years 2018-19, 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 by SNGPL are attached as Annex-A, B & C respectively.

SSGCL has not received any funds from the Federal Government during FYs 2018-19 & 2019-20 on account of gas development schemes of new towns and villages. However, sanction letters advising release of funds of Rs.60 million and Rs.178.534 million respectively have been received by SSGCL during FY 2020-21 for approved gasification schemes in the Province of Sindh under Sustainable Development Goals Achievement Programme (SAP) and the details of the schemes / villages are enclosed at Annex-D.

(b) The exact location of the area, where such schemes have been or to be made and the name of the National Assembly Constituency are also given in above referred Annex-A, B C & D.

(c) These schemes have been funded out of the Company sources (cost within criteria) & GOP (cost above criteria). Government of Pakistan funding may be from Provincial or Federal Government.

(d) Gas schemes are undertaken as per the guidelines of Sustainable Development Goals Achievement Program (SAP).

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library).

163. *Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb:

Will the Minister for Communications be pleased to state:

(a) the names of cities of Punjab between which new motorways/highways are under construction; and

(b) when these will be completed?

Minister for Communications (Mr. Murad Saeed): (a) Highways

National Highway Authority has planned different Highway and Motorway projects in Punjab province, the detail of which is given as under:

41 42

(b)  All projects which have been included in PSDP 2021-22 will be completed in time, subject to provision of funds in time.

 Feasibility Studies & future projects completion will depend upon approval from CDWP/ECNEC and provision of funds in PSDP.

164. *Ms. Tahira Aurangzeb:

Will the Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division) be pleased to state the quantity of Gas and petroleum being extracted daily from each well in Pakistan at present? 43 Minister for Petroleum Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): The daily average quantity of Gas and Oil extracted at present is around 3,525 Million Standard Cubic feet per Day (MMSCFD) and 75,580 Billion Oil per Day (BOPD) respectively. Detail of Gas and Oil production from each field is at Annex-I

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library).

165. *Ms. Shahida Rehmani:

Will the Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the detail of amount of petroleum levy for the year 2008, 2013 and 2018 on wards;

(b) the reasons for advancing recent increment in Petroleum levy;

Minister for Petroleum Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) The detail of amount of petroleum levy for the year 2007-08, 2012-13 and 2017-18 are as under;

Period Amount (Rs. Billion) 2007-08 14.470 2012-13 109.666 2017-18 178.874

(b) Pertains to Finance Division.

(c) Petroleum Levy is not part of the Divisible Pool in terms of the National Finance Commission, Awards and is, therefore, not passed on directly to the provinces. However, the revenue so raised is used by the Federal Government in the general public interest, including development spending through the PSDP projects all over the country.

ISLAMABAD: TAHIR HUSSAIN, The 8th August, 2021. Secretary.

PCPPI—4001(2021) NA—8-8-2021—500. 1

(35th Session)

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT

————

“UNSTARRED QUESTIONS AND THEIR REPLIES”

For Monday, the 9th August, 2021

4. Nawab Muhammad Yousuf Talpur: (Deferred during 13th Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that Peshawar High Court through its directions in 2011 and a decisions of the Federal Cabinet asked for dissolution of PEPCO; if so, the reasons for non- implementation of the above said decisions for dissolution of PEPCO;

(b) the legal status of PEPCO at present;

(d) how far PEPCO has been successful in overseeing management of DISCOs;

(e) the specific role of PEPCO in the light of “Regulation of Generation, Transmission and Distribution of Electric Power Act, 1997 and amended Act of 2018 when GENCOs, NTDC, CPPA & DISCOs have their independent BoDs;

(f) the role of Power Division, PEPCO & BoDs of DISCOs in appointment and transfers of CEOs of DISCOs; and

(g) the role of NEPRA as a Regulator in DISCOs?

Reply not received.

72. Nawab Muhammad Yousuf Talpur: (Deferred during 18th Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state the details of disciplinary cases not yet finalized during last one year in WAPDA, PEPCO, GENCOs NTDC and DISCOs after lapse of prescribed period as per rules, their impact on the promotion and retirement of such officers and the time by which these cases will be finalized?

Reply not received.

29. Mr. Saad Waseem: (Deferred during 19th Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) number of applicants of the recently advertised vacancies of Bill Distribution and Assistant Lineman in Islamabad Electric Supply Company with qualification required to apply for;

(b) details of marks obtained in NTS test of each candidate appeared in tests of aforesaid vacancies; and

(c) complete details in all aspects including NTS and SSC marks of shortlisted candidates for interview of aforesaid vacancies with the criteria adopted in short listing?

Reply not received.

4. Dr. Mahreen Razzaq Bhutto: (Deferred during 20th Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) detail of increase made in the electricity bills during the last one year; and

(b) the detail of domestic and commercial consumers separately?

Reply not received. 3

15. Sheikh Rohale Asghar: (Deferred during 20th Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the employees of Power Division and its attached department went abroad at the expense of Government during the last four years; and

(b) the detail of authority sent them abroad and the reasons therefor; and

Reply not received.

5. Mr. Iqbal Muhammad Ali Khan: (Deferred during 31st Session)

Will the Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that pressure of natural Gas is low to zero at Wahdat Road Lahore and in particular H. No.4-S/51, Green Street Clifton Colony Wahdat Road Lahore; if so, the reasons thereof;

(b) what action has been taken by authorities concerned to improve, the pressure of gas to aforesaid locality; and

Minister for Petroleum Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) Various steps are being taken by the Company to maintain proper gas pressure through system augmentation of distribution network / operational phases and re-drilling of service tees etc. However, demand and supply gap of indigenous gas is observed particularly during winter season at peak-hours within the areas falling at the tail-end of gas distribution network. In order to bridge this ever-increasing gap, various strategies are being adopted by the Company for efficient gas load management. 4

Emergency teams are formulated in the regions to address the low pressure complaints of the consumers. Vigilance teams are checking the suspected sites and disconnect the connection upon violation of using compressor. Further, SNGPL has also initiated media campaign against consumers using gas compressors for awareness and deterrence that the gas connection of such consumers will be disconnected immediately as well as the consumer will also have to pay reconnection charges and fine for restoration of gas connection. Low pressure of natural gas is experienced at Wahdat Road Lahore and/ particularly at H. # 4-S/51, Green Street Clifton Colony Wahdat Road Lahore due to deteriorated network.

(b) To improve the pressure in the above locality, network replacement of 9.6 KMs at the cost of Rs. 30 million (Approx.) is already in progress.

(c) The above network will be replaced on or before 30-06-2021 subject to unforeseen, circumstances in order to resolve the low pressure issue in the above locality. Upon replacement of network, low pressure issue at said locality shall be addressed.

6. Disallowed on re-consideration.

1. Mr. Murtaza Javed Abbasi: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the 200 KV transformer of village Lower Braddar, Union Council Nika Pani, Tehsil Darband, District Mansehra is overloaded;

(b) if so, the time by which the additional 100 KV transformer will be installed in said village?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) No, it is not a fact that the 200 kVA transformer of village Lower Braddar Union Council Nika Pani, Tehsil Darband, District Mansehra is overloaded, as there are only 120 connections being fed from the said transformer, however, the transformer is running on 02 phases but not over loaded.

(b) As elaborated above, there is no need for additional 100 kVA transformer on the said location. 5

2. Mr. Murtaza Javed Abbasi: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that two Nos 50 KVA transformers were installed in village Dheri Mera, UC Salhad, Tehsil and District Abbottabad are overloaded;

(b) if so, the steps being taken by the Government to upgrade these transformers to 100 KVA or install an additional 50 KVA transformers?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) XEN (Operation) City Division, Abbottabad has apprised that out of 02 Nos 50 KVA transformers installed in Dheri Maira, 01 No. 50 KVA transformer has already been upgraded with 100 KVA transformer under chain augmentation on 01-02-2021.

The loading position of the other 50 KVA transformer installed there is as under:—

Phase Red Phase Yellow Phase Blue Recorded on 51 Amps 49 Amps 52 Amps 09-07-2021

The above statistics clearly indicate that above 50KVA transformer is not overloaded.

(b) As elaborated above, one of the transformer has already been upgraded, whereas, the other 50 kVA transformer is under load and does not require up-gradation at the moment.

4. Ch. Khalid Javed: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division) be pleased to state:

(a) how many Gas connections are pending till 31st May, 2021;

(b) to provide monthly statement of issue demand notice and gas connections from 1st July, 2020 to 1st May, 2021; 6

(d) NA-wise, details of new scheme's progress report from 1st July, 2018 to 30th May, 2021;

(e) how many schemes are pending of NA-111 and when they will be completed; and

(f) details of fund available for such schemes?

Minister for Petroleum Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) Approximately 2,916,641 gas connections are pending with SNGPL as of 31st May 2021, while applications pending for domestic connections till 31st May, 2021 with SSGC are 67,781.

(b) Lists of demand notices issued and gas connections provided, during the period from 1st July, 2020 to 30th June. 2021 by SNGPL and SSGC are attached as Annexure-A.

(c) Sui Companies maintain data on regional basis rather than NA-wise basis. The region wise details of demand notice and gas connections by SNGPL and SSGC are Annexure-A.

(d) NA-wise detail of new schemes approved under SAP programme during 1st July, 2018 to 30th May, 2021 by SNGPL and during 1st July, 2018 to 30th June, 2021 by SSGC are attached as Annexure-B.

(e) The progress of the approved/on-going schemes of NA-111 from 2013 to 2018 (list attached as Annexure-C). The details are as under:

Total approved schemes = 17 Completed Schemes = 09 (95% & above) Pending Schemes = 08

SNGPL has apprised that the job numbers of 7 schemes out of pending 8 schemes will be sanctioned during the current fiscal year subject to availability of distribution development budget approval by 7

OGRA. However, 01 scheme will be completed after release of Rs. 1.6 million as lapsed amount.

(f) The details of funds available are attached as Annexure-C.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

6. Syed Agha Rafiullah: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that single phase electricity wires were laid in the different area of Chak No. 255/EB Manamar Burewala;

(b) whether there is any proposal under consideration to convert into the three phase where three phase wire were not installed in the areas of said village; if so, the details thereof;

(d) the time by which three phase wire will be installed?

Reply not received.

7. Syed Agha Rafiullah: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that a 200 KV transformer recently installed to improve load management at Mora Baghwala in Village Darkali Sher Shahi of Tehsil Kallar Syedan, District Rawalpindi being removed by IESCO;

(b) if so, the reasons thereof; and

Reply not received. 8

9. Mr. Saad Waseem: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that facilitation of general public is responsibility of Government and its entities;

(b) if so, steps being taken by IESCO for provision of electricity (a basic need) at its earliest and to remove ban on electricity meters if any exists, for residents of Masjid Usman Ghani near Umer Chowk Bani Gala, Islamabad and Ibrahim Mohallah Kund Rajgan, Ibrahim Mosque, Chatta Bakhtawar, Islamabad?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) Yes, it is a fact that facilitation of general public is responsibility of the Government and its entities.

(b) IESCO has taken necessary steps for lifting ban on provision of electricity connection. Now there is no ban for provision of electricity connection except to the illegal Housing Societies. Consumers can apply and get connection as per SOPs. The applications for new connections from Masjid Usman Ghani, Near Umer Chowk, Bani Gala and Ibrahim Mohallah Kund Rajgan, Ibrahim Mosque Chatta Bakhtawar, Islamabad, will be processed as per SOPs as and when received.

10. Ms. Mussarat Rafiq Mahesar: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the 100 KV transformer is installed in Village Issa Khan Thebo for public, Union Council Sindhi Buttra, Tehsil K. N. Shah, District Dadu, which is overloaded;

(b) if so, the time by which the additional 200 KV transformer will be installed in said village?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) As reported by Executive Engineer (Opr. Division) SEPCO, Mehar;

1. Total No. of Houses in the said village : 53 Nos. 2. Total No. of connections on the said transformers : 33 Nos. 3. Total No. of paying consumers : 05 Nos. 4. Total No. of defaulters : 28 Nos. 5. Defaulter Amount : 14.480(M)

Connected / running Load per phase in Ampere;

Phase Connected Standard Loading Remarks Load (Amp) Capacity (Amp)

RED 95 Amp 139 Amp Under Load YELLOW 130 Amp 139 Amp Under Load BLUE 109 Amp 139 Amp Under Load

(b) As elaborated above the 100KVA transformer installed is already under load, therefore, there is no need of additional transformer at the said village.

12. Mr. Saad Waseem: (Deferred on 16-07-2021)

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that facilitation of general public is responsibility of Government and its entities;

(b) if so, steps being taken by the Government for provision of electricity (a basic need) at its earliest and to remove ban on electricity meters if any exists, for residents of Al-Qasmia Colony, UC Kolachi, Tehsil Mehar, District Dadu?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) Yes, it is a prime responsibility of Government and its Entities to provide Electricity to General Public.

(b) The Executive Engineer (Opr. Division), SEPCO Mehar has intimated that the owner of M/s Al-Qasimia Colony as well as its Residents have not applied for Electricity meters as yet.

29. Ch. Muhammad Hamid Hameed:

Will the Minister for Science and Technology be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that an allowance was approved for the employees who are registered members, as engineer with Pakistan Engineering Council;

(b) as the same allowance has been allowed by the Governments of Sindh, Punjab, the KPK, Balochistan and Azad Kashmir but unfortunately Federal Government has not given permission for this allowance so far;

(c) particularly Capital Development Authority has not made any implement on the said orders by the Government/Council; and

(d) whether there is any proposal under consideration of the Government to make prompt implementation thereon?

Minister for Science and Technology (Syed Shibli Faraz): (a) Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) had earlier proposed a technical allowance for the engineers working in Federal and Provincial Governments for consideration of the respective governments.

(b) Provincial Governments i.e. Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJ&K) have approved the said allowance for the engineers working in respective governments.

Federal Government / Ministry of Science & Technology has prepared a report / proposal encompassing the data of the engineers working in federal government alongwith the financial impact which would be incurred and forwarded to Pay & Pension Committee and Finance Division for consideration. Copy of the same is enclosed at Annex-I.

(d) The above said proposal has been submitted to Pay & Pension Committee and Finance Division for consideration.

(Annexure has been placed in the National Assembly Library) 11

30. Sheikh Rohale Asghar:

Will the Minister for Communications be pleased to state the detail of new NHA projects started by the incumbent Government in the country alongwith the locations thereof?

Reply not received.

31. Sheikh Rohale Asghar:

Will the Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the number of times by which the price of Petroleum products per litre was increased by the Government during the period from 13 August 2018 to till today; and

(b) the details of increase made in the prices of petroleum products in the international market, during the aforesaid period?

Minister for Petroleum Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) The price of Petroleum Products were increased nineteen times by the Government during the period from 13 August 2018 to till date as per detail attached at Annexure-I.

(The details of increase made in the prices of petroleum products in the international market, during the aforesaid period are at Annexure-II.

(Annexures have been placed in the National Assembly Library)

32. Mr. Murtaza Javed Abbasi:

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that the 50 KV Transformer of village Hottar, Union Council Nika Pani, Tehsil Darband, District Mansehra is overloaded;

(b) if so, the time by which the said Transformer will be upgraded with 100 KV transformer?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) No, it is not a fact that the 50 KVA transformer at village Hottar, Union Council Nikka Pani, Tehsil Darband, District Mansehra is over loaded.

(b) There is no need for up-gradation of the said transformer as it is sufficient and is supplying power to 42 connections.

33. Mr. Murtaza Javed Abbasi

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that PESCO has installed 50 KV transformer for Village Bankot, Union Council Nikka Pani, Tehsil Darband, District Mansehra on a hill causing severe difficulties in re-installation, repair and the maintenance of the said transformer; if so;

(b) the steps being taken by the PESCO for shifting the said transformer to a convenient place near by the road side?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) No, it is not a fact.

(b) The said 50-KVA transformer of village Bankot, Union Council Nikka Pani, Tehsil Darband, District Mansehra is at a very secure and approachable site in the village and there is no need to shift the said transformer to other location.

34. Syed Agha Rafiullah:

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) whether it is a fact that residents of Sector I/14-1, Islamabad, are facing unscheduled loadshedding, low electrical voltages, causing irreparable damage for home appliances and day by day faults at X formers installed for Streets ranging 32 to Street 50; 13

(b) if so, steps are being taken by the Government in this regard;

(c) whether it is also a fact that staff deputed at complaint center and also in the concerned SDO office is not entertaining public calls/complaints related to electricity;

(d) if so, steps being taken by the Government to issue directions regarding resolving public grievances, calls and complaints expeditiously?

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) For the purpose of electrification of Sector I-14 CDA authority has paid the Demand Note. Accordingly, electrification work for Street No. 32 to 50 Sector I-14/1 Islamabad has already been initiated. As confirmed by Project Director (Construction) IESCO Islamabad that One 100 KVA transformer has been installed on 23-6-2021 in Street No. 50 Sector I-14/1 Islamabad to resolve the low voltage problem. The remaining work of electrification for streets No. 32 to 49, Sector I-14/1 comprising of installation of 06, 200 KVA transformers and 05 KM Wasp Conductor Line is also under process. The said work will be completed within 60 days, subject to no right of way.

(b) As explained above Para “a”.

(c) IESCO staff is available at complaint office to attend / resolve public complaints as and when received. Sometimes due to severe weather, network disturbances occur which the complaint office becomes overburdened and complaints get delayed due to the rush of work and stormy weather condition.

(d) All out efforts are made for immediate redressal of public complaints in minimum possible time. The IESCO staff has been directed to be more vigilant in redressal of public complaints.

35. Syed Agha Rafiullah:

Will the Minister for Energy (Power Division) be pleased to state:

(a) the total number of electric transformers overloaded in village of Patoyoon at present alongwith the details thereof;

(b) whether it is also a fact that electric transformer in village Ahmed Qaim Kahni is also over loaded installed therein; and

Minister for Power Division (Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar): (a) There are three distribution transformers installed in village Patoyoon and all three transformers are operational and running smoothly.

KVA No. of Current Loading Loading Loading Capacity connections carrying position position position capacity Red phase Yellow Blue phase phase 100KVA 46 140 Apms 45 Apms 65 Apms 45 Apms 100KVA 22 140 Apms 30 Apms 35 Apms 35 Apms 50 KVA 15 70Amps 30 Apms 30Apms 35 Apms

(b) No, it is not the fact that the only distribution transformer installed at village Ahmed Qaim Kahni is overloaded, instead it is operational and running smoothly as is evident from the statistics given below:—

KVA No. of Current Loading Loading Loading Capacity connections carrying position position position capacity Red phase Yellow Blue phase phase 100KVA 20 140 Apms 30 Apms 40 Apms 35 Apms

(c) As elaborated above, loading position of each transformer is within prescribed limits, therefore, no over loading on these transformers exists, hence no replacement is required.

ISLAMABAD: TAHIR HUSSAIN, The 8th August, 2021. Secretary.

PCPPI—4001(2021) NA—8-8-2021—500.