US govt improves Hyderabad’s power distribution network

HYDERABAD: US Consul General Conrad Tribble delivered 2,400 electric poles valued at $500,000 to the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (Hesco), which was among the worst-hit distribution companies, with extensive damage to its power supply network, following the 2022 floods.

The US government partnered with Hesco in its flood recovery and rehabilitation efforts through the US Agency for International Development (USAID) funded Power Sector Improvement Activity and provided 2,400 pre-stressed concrete high-tension spun (hollow) poles, essential for the restoration and rebuilding of power distribution networks, said a press release issued on Monday.

Shaikh Jamil Gul, chairman of the Hesco Board of Directors, received the poles at the ceremony and expressed gratitude for the crucial support, stating “I wish to extend Hesco’s sincere gratitude to the US government for their invaluable support and unwavering dedication. USAID’s collaboration and assistance, including the handover of 2,400 spun poles for the rehabilitation of flood-affected areas, will not only strengthen vital infrastructure but also enhance the resilience of communities against natural disasters.”

Consul General Conrad Tribble appreciated Hesco’s efforts in maintaining the supply of electricity immediately after floods despite on-the-ground challenges. “The US government’s assistance to Hesco is just one facet of our broader support to Pakistan’s energy sector. Our energy partnership is now more critical than ever as we work together to mitigate the effects of climate change – our greatest long-term global challenge,” remarked Consul General Tribble.

Over the past decade, USAID has been instrumental in introducing innovative technologies and providing extensive training to government officials across Pakistan. This comprehensive support not only enhanced the reliability of electricity access but also supported economic growth.

US Consul General also visited the Hyderabad mayor’s office. Mayor Kashif Ali Shoro held a meeting with Conrad Tribble at the Mayor’s Secretariat, Thandi Sarak, in which the divisional commissioner, deputy commissioner, and municipal commissioner of the Hyderabad Municipal Corporation were also present.

A discussion was conducted with the consul general regarding basic health facilities matters, including clean water supply, renewable energy, population expansion, and various other longstanding issues pertinent to Hyderabad.The consul general pledged to deliver the discussed concerns to higher authorities for deliberationFollowing the meeting, the consul general engaged in a cordial interaction with elected representatives, chairmen of town municipal corporations, and members of the HMC for minorities.