Govt to seek relief from IMF for flood victims' power bills

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday directed the Ministry of Finance to contact the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for relief on electricity bills in flood-affected areas, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

According to details, the Prime Minister specifically instructed officials to seek a one-month exemption on electricity bills for residents of affected areas. He emphasized that discussions with the IMF should begin promptly to ensure that relief reaches the people without delay.

The relief, sources added, will not be limited to cities. It will also cover rural areas across Pakistan that have suffered from the floods. The government plans to implement this support nationwide wherever people have been impacted by the disaster.

Earlier, Pakistan People’s Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had called on the government to waive electricity bills for farmers in flood-hit regions. Responding to the worsening situation, the Prime Minister declared an agricultural and climatic emergency in the country.

Officials said the relief is part of a broader effort to support flood victims. It reflects the government’s commitment to provide assistance to both urban and rural communities affected by natural disasters.

The Ministry of Finance is expected to engage with IMF representatives soon. The goal is to finalize a plan that allows immediate financial relief while maintaining compliance with international financial agreements.