KPTMA Appeals to CM Gandapur Over Industrial Crisis

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Textile Mills Association (KPTMA) has urgently requested Chief Minister Sardar Ali Amin Khan Gandapur to intervene and resolve pressing issues that critically endanger the province’s industrial base.

In a formal letter to the Chief Minister, KPTMA voiced significant apprehension regarding the recently introduced Off-Grid (Captive Power Plants) Levy Ordinance 2025, which enforces an added charge of Rs. 791 per MMBTU on consumers utilizing captive power plants.

This unprecedented levy has driven the cost of natural gas to an unsustainable Rs. 4,291 per MMBTU, effectively contravening Article 158 of the Constitution. This article ensures preferential access to locally produced gas for provinces generating gas, such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

KPTMA emphasized that this sharp cost increase is eroding the province’s last remaining advantage in industry: cost-effective energy sourced locally.

The imposition of these escalating expenses is compelling mills to cease operations, resulting in extensive job losses and discouraging prospective investments in the region.

Furthermore, the Association expressed concerns regarding the suspension of the 148 MW power bidding process by PEDO. This suspension has left industries without access to alternative and more economical energy options, thereby intensifying the energy challenges encountered by local enterprises.

Chairman of KPTMA, Sikandar Kuli Khan Khattak, has entreated the Chief Minister to promptly convene a meeting with essential stakeholders. These include the Chief Secretary, CEO of PEDO, and Ministers for Energy and Industries, to rapidly tackle these issues and enact remedial actions.

KPTMA remains optimistic that, under the proactive leadership of Chief Minister Gandapur, swift measures will be implemented to safeguard the province’s industrial sector and secure the livelihoods of numerous workers reliant on its stability.