KARACHI: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif predicted an economic boom in Tharparkar as he inaugurated two coal-fired power plants with capacity of 1,650 megawatt of electricity generation, saying these projects would turn desert into an economic hub. Projects including 1,320MW Shanghai Electric power plant and 330MW Thal Nova power plant will annually generate 11.24 billion units of low-cost electricity. Through direct investment of $ 3.53 billion into these projects, production of coal-based electricity in Thar will increase up to 3,300MW.

Addressing launch at Islamkot area Thar, Shehbaz Sharif said it was moment of celebration for entire country that desert of Tharparker was getting source of basic facilities for life. He dismissed criticism by section of people against Thar’s coal, terming it blessing with immense potential for power resources that needed to be untapped. He expressed confidence that journey of progress would spread across country and would strengthen national economy.  PM said by April 30, power turbines would be installed at projects to generate electricity, which would be supplied to rest of country through transmission lines. He expressed gratitude to government of China for extending support to Pakistan in carrying out development projects under CPEC. He vowed that coalition government would put in all efforts to materialise CPEC projects, with agriculture sector as its next phase. He announced hospital for people of Tharparker to provide them with medical facilities at their doorsteps.

 He said no one was above law and would not be allowed to support terrorists and use them as shields.

Published in The Daily National Courier, March, 23 2023

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