Power minister backs overhaul aimed at boosting efficiency, transparency and reliability in transmission system
To cover losses, successive governments have increased electricity prices and imposed a Rs3.23 per unit surcharge to service debts taken for power distribution companies, pushing energy prices to the highest levels in the region. Photo: file
The National Grid Company of Pakistan Limited (NGC) is set to roll out a new operating model from July 1, 2026, as part of an ongoing organisational overhaul aimed at improving efficiency, transparency and reliability in the power transmission system.
The development was shared with Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari during a recent briefing, where the company said its transformation initiative—launched in January this year—remains on track.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s support for the reform process, stating that the effort reflects the “kind of institutional change Pakistan’s power sector urgently needs”.
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The restructuring is being led by NGC Managing Director Engr Altaf Hussain Malik, who assumed office in November 2025. He said the initiative aims to build a more “agile, accountable” utility aligned with global best practices.
The overhaul seeks to address structural inefficiencies dating back to 1998, when NGC’s predecessor, the National Transmission and Dispatch Company (NTDC), was established. Despite evolving into a dedicated transmission service provider, the company continued to operate under a legacy structure marked by overlapping functions and weak coordination.
Under the new model, NGC will introduce unified operations leadership, strengthen financial management, establish dedicated regulatory and stakeholder teams, and implement independent safety oversight. The plan also includes streamlining internal processes and deploying modern digital systems to enable real-time data monitoring and improved grid management.
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Since January, the company has filled key leadership positions, introduced performance metrics and advanced the deployment of new technology systems. An internal town hall was also held last month to align staff on the transition.
While the new operating model will go live in July, NGC expects full operational and digital maturity by December 31, 2026.
NGC, evolved from WAPDA and NTDC, is responsible for electricity transmission and metering services across Pakistan’s national grid.
