KP denied hydel profit in violation of Constitution: CM’s aide

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has been denied its rightful share of hydropower profits, according to a statement by the province's finance adviser, Muzzammil Aslam. KP produces 70% of the country's hydel power generation, while Punjab generates 30%. However, the federal government has only paid KP Rs71.5 billion and Punjab Rs177.7 billion in net hydel profit over the last three years. Punjab received Rs106.2 billion more than KP during the same period, despite KP's higher share in hydropower generation.

Aslam cited Article 151 of the Constitution, which the Punjab government has violated continuously for the past three years. This violation has hindered inter-provincial transportation of wheat, leading to a significant increase in wheat prices in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and across the country. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, wheat prices increased by up to 85% during the current year.

KP is entitled to its Net Hydel Profit (NHP) under Article 161(2) of the Constitution, which states that the province bearing the environmental, social, and economic impacts of hydropower generation must receive its profits. In 2024-2026, KP's 12 hydropower plants generated 61.2 billion units of electricity, while Punjab's plants generated only 23.5 billion units. Despite this, Punjab received an additional Rs106.2 billion in NHP, while KP remains deprived of its constitutional right.

Aslam pointed out that the perception of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif providing additional resources to Punjab has been reinforced by KP's persistent delays in receiving its rightful share. The unequal distribution of federal resources has fueled a sense of injustice among the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and undermined their economic rights. He called for the immediate release of the outstanding Rs106.2 billion under the NHP and the resolution of this issue at the Council of Common Interests meeting.