ISLAMABAD (Zahid Yaqoob Khawaja): Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari has taken stern action following concerns over delays and negligence in ongoing projects of the National Transmission and Despatch Company (NTDC). As a result, the NTDC Board has removed several senior officials from their positions, including a Deputy Managing Director, two General Managers, a Chief Financial Officer, and three Chief Engineers.

The decision was made during a recent performance review meeting convened by the Federal Minister to assess the progress of ongoing and future NTDC projects. Expressing serious concern over unwarranted delays, Mr. Leghari directed the NTDC Board to conduct an immediate inquiry and identify those responsible for negligence.

During the session, the minister emphasized a policy of zero tolerance for delays in critical infrastructure projects, citing the economic losses amounting to billions of rupees caused by project slowdowns. He urged the Board to take corrective measures and ensure the timely completion of all national power transmission initiatives.

Responding to the minister’s directive, the NTDC Board evaluated the company’s operational shortcomings and discussed a strategic roadmap to enhance project planning and execution efficiency. Based on the findings, the Board held the Planning Wing accountable for performance lapses.

As a result, disciplinary action has been initiated. The Deputy Managing Director heading the Planning Wing, two General Managers, and the Chief Financial Officer have been placed in the Officers on Special Duty (OSD) category with immediate effect. Additionally, three Chief Engineers were relieved of their current responsibilities for failing to fulfill their duties effectively.

Furthermore, the Board has granted the NTDC Managing Director a two-week deadline to review the roles of other managers, deputy managers, and staff members involved, and recommend further disciplinary actions as necessary.

This decisive move marks a significant step towards accountability in the power sector, with authorities reaffirming their commitment to timely infrastructure development to meet the country’s growing energy needs.