Lahore Power Grid Strained as Severe Storm Causes Widespread Outages
A powerful thunderstorm swept through Lahore on May 15, 2024, leaving a trail of damaged infrastructure and widespread power outages across numerous neighborhoods. Areas particularly affected include Shan Ravi, samanabad, Qila Gujjar Singh, Shahdara, Imamia Colony, Shalimar, Baghbanpura, Harbanspura, Garhi shahu, Mughalpura, and Bhati Gate. Initial reports indicate the storm, which began around 7:30 PM local time, brought heavy rainfall, strong winds gusting up to 80 km/h, and localized flooding.
The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) confirmed a significant surge in transformer failures due to the storm’s intensity. At least 27 transformers reportedly burned out, impacting electricity supply to both residential and commercial areas. Residents reported outages lasting between 4 and 12 hours, with some areas still without power as of Wednesday morning. LESCO spokesperson, Muhammad Ali, stated that repair crews were working around the clock to restore electricity, prioritizing critical infrastructure like hospitals and water pumping stations.He further noted that the sheer number of failures was straining LESCO’s resources.
The incident underscores the vulnerability of lahore’s aging electrical infrastructure to increasingly frequent and severe weather events linked to climate change. A 2023 study by the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) highlighted a 20% increase in extreme rainfall events in the Punjab province over the past decade. Experts warn that without ample investment in upgrading and reinforcing the power grid, similar disruptions will become more common. The Punjab government announced on May 16th a PKR 5 billion (approximately $17.5 million USD) emergency fund for infrastructure repairs, with a specific allocation for upgrading transformer substations in vulnerable areas. This fund will be overseen by the Lahore Development Authority (LDA).
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