NGC Convenes Workshop to Address Right-of-Way Challenges in Power Transmission

By Muhammad Shahzad, Lahore
LAHORE: The National Grid Company of Pakistan (NGC) convened its first-ever workshop on Right-of-Way (ROW) issues in transmission infrastructure at the Lahore University of Management Sciences, bringing together legal experts, development partners, and key stakeholders from the power sector.
The workshop aimed to develop a modern legal and operational framework to resolve land access challenges that continue to hinder the timely and reliable expansion of Pakistan’s power transmission network.
Experts highlighted that ROW constraints—particularly legal and practical hurdles in acquiring land for transmission lines—remain a major barrier to grid expansion. These delays often result in cost overruns, reduced grid reliability, and slower delivery of affordable electricity across the country.
Opening the session, NGC Chief Law Officer Ms. Maria Rafique outlined the objectives, describing the workshop as the beginning of a structured effort to build an effective governance model aligned with Pakistan’s growing transmission needs.
In his keynote address, Chairman NGC Board Dr. Fiaz Ahmad Chaudhry emphasized the need for reforming outdated legal frameworks. He noted that century-old laws must be modernized to move from a reactive to a proactive approach in tackling infrastructure challenges.
A key focus of the discussions was the urgent need to reform the Land Acquisition Act 1894, a colonial-era law still governing land acquisition in Pakistan. Participants agreed that it is misaligned with current infrastructure requirements.
Chairman of the Central Power Purchasing Agency Guarantee Limited, Mr. Irfan Ali, stressed that fair and equitable treatment of landowners is essential not only legally but also for ensuring timely project completion and reducing disputes.
NGC Legal Consultant Dr. Daud Munir presented a detailed overview of the regulatory landscape, identifying gaps between existing laws and operational needs. He proposed elements of a modern ROW framework, drawing on international best practices that balance public interest with private rights.
Participants from distribution companies (DISCOs), EPC contractors, the Deputy Commissioner Office Lahore, the Environmental Protection Agency, the World Bank, and CPPA-G shared practical insights and discussed reforms required to accelerate project delivery.
In his closing remarks, Managing Director NGC Engr. Altaf Hussain Malik reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to legislative reforms and institutional improvements. He stressed that while updating laws is critical, strengthening internal processes and community engagement is equally essential to ensure effective implementation of future infrastructure projects.