PTI MNA demands fair share for KP in electricity, infrastructure development

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) MNA Shandana Gulzar has criticized the federal government for “depriving Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP)” of its fair share in electricity and infrastructure development, claiming the province receives only 4 percent of the electricity it produces.
Addressing a press conference at the Peshawar Press Club (PPC) alongside senior PTI leader and lawyer Moazzam Butt Advocate, Shandana stated that KP, which contributes 30pc of Pakistan’s electricity—mostly through hydel power—was supplied electricity at exorbitant rates of Rs 65 per unit.
She emphasized that the province only needs 10pc of what it generates, but continues to be denied its due share.
“The federation owes KP Rs 1.5 trillion in net hydel profit,” she said, adding that the province has historically been neglected in terms of infrastructure and investment.
“KP has always been on the front lines during times of war, yet it is treated like a stepchild.”
She also raised concerns over the control of KP’s mineral resources, alleging that vested interests have their eyes on the province’s wealth.
“More than 80% of the companies in the country belong to two families who have looted the country since 2014,” she claimed.
Advocate Moazzam Butt added that a controversial draft on Minor and Minerals, prepared with the involvement of foreign entities, was being pushed through despite opposition.
He alleged that the Awami National Party (ANP) opposed the bill in KP but supported it in Balochistan. “We will challenge this bill in court if it was passed in the KP Assembly,” he asserted.
Both leaders called for transparency regarding ownership of mineral resources and urged the government to ensure that the benefits of KP’s natural wealth reach its people.