Power Minister Orders Dismissals at NTDC

Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari has mandated the immediate dismissal of seven high-ranking officials from the National Transmission & Despatch Company (NTDC). Those removed include a Deputy Managing Director, two General Managers, a Chief Financial Officer, and three Chief Engineers, cited for “negligence and unwarranted delays” in ongoing project execution, the Power Division announced Wednesday.

This firm action comes after a performance review meeting during which the minister voiced significant apprehension regarding costly impediments in the state-operated power utility’s activities.

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Leghari conveyed, “The NTDC board has received directives to demonstrate zero tolerance toward delays,” stressing that inefficiencies in project management were costing the country “billions in losses”.

The minister previously requested an inquiry during the review session to determine the reasons for delays in essential transmission and dispatch projects.

Subsequently, an NTDC board meeting identified underlying deficiencies in project design and rollout.

Investigations showed that the Planning Wing – under the leadership of the dismissed Deputy MD, the two GMs, and the CFO – had consistently failed to adhere to established timelines.

The board promptly issued “OSD” (Officer on Special Duty, awaiting further instructions) orders for these officials, while the three Chief Engineers were relieved of their responsibilities due to “neglect of duty.”
Additionally, the NTDC Managing Director has a two-week deadline to institute disciplinary measures against other negligent employees, including managers and deputy managers.

Furthermore, the board sanctioned a revised approach to revamp operational workflows and resolve persistent shortcomings in project delivery.

The Power Minister cautioned, “Every instance of delay in these projects directly impacts Pakistan’s economic stability,” emphasizing the government’s determination to ensure accountability among officials.

This crackdown represents the government’s initiative to optimize the energy sector in response to increasing scrutiny of infrastructure constraints.