The Peshawar High Court has directed power distribution companies to ensure continuous electricity supply during Sehri and Iftar hours throughout the upcoming Ramadan, ruling that there should be no load shedding during these critical fasting times.
The order, issued following a public interest petition, aims to minimise hardship for residents observing Ramadan by maintaining reliable power during early morning and evening hours when families prepare meals ahead of and after fasting. Electricity companies have been instructed to adjust load-management schedules accordingly and to prioritise uninterrupted supply in those time windows.
Court’s Reasoning and Public Interest Concerns
The court noted that the right to basic amenities, particularly electricity during essential daily activities in Ramadan, is fundamental to public welfare. Judges emphasised that arbitrary power cuts at Sehri and Iftar impose unnecessary stress on households already managing fasting routines.
Petitioners had argued that frequent load shedding during critical meal times disrupted daily life, especially for the elderly, women, and families preparing meals. The PHC bench agreed the hardship was avoidable and directed relevant authorities to revise load schedules to ensure continuity during the specified hours.
What the Order Means for Power Distribution
Under the directive, distribution companies must:
- Maintain uninterrupted electricity during Sehri (pre-dawn meal hours) and Iftar (evening meal hours) throughout Ramadan.
- Operate adjusted load-control schedules outside those windows while managing supply constraints.
- Prioritise feeders and circuits serving densely populated residential areas ahead of and after fasting hours.
Officials from power companies said they would comply with the court’s order and coordinate with regulators to implement revised schedules. They noted that overall supply constraints remain a challenge, but assured residents that electricity would be available during the designated times.
Broader Context: Ramadan and Power Challenges
Load shedding during Ramadan has been a recurring public concern in recent years, as households and businesses grapple with the dual pressures of fasting and heightened electricity use at Sehri and Iftar.
The PHC’s order reflects judicial sensitivity to seasonal hardships, especially where predictable power access can materially ease daily life during the holy month. Observers say that consistent electricity during Sehri and Iftar not only supports daily routines but also reduces stress on vulnerable populations for whom power unpredictability exacerbates health and comfort issues.
Implementation and Monitoring
The court instructed power distribution companies and regulators to submit compliance reports during Ramadan to ensure the order is being followed. Monitoring teams will track outages and schedule adherence, and authorities may be held accountable for lapses.
Local consumer groups have welcomed the ruling, expressing hope that the directive will be implemented effectively and that residents will see tangible relief during the fasting month.
