IESCO Announces Scheduled Power Outage on July 12 for System Maintenance: Residents Urged to Prepare in Advance
The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) has officially informed the public about a planned electricity shutdown scheduled for Friday, July 12, 2025. This temporary power outage will take place across several areas in Rawalpindi, Chakwal, and Jhelum circles. According to IESCO, the purpose of this shutdown is to carry out important system upgrades and routine maintenance to ensure a more stable and uninterrupted electricity supply in the future.
Duration and Timing of Shutdown
IESCO stated that the power will remain suspended for four hours, from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, on the said date. During this period, engineers and maintenance crews will perform scheduled technical work on various feeders and substations. This essential activity is part of IESCO’s ongoing strategy to reduce unscheduled load-shedding, eliminate potential faults, and enhance overall service delivery across its operational areas.
Areas to Be Affected by the Outage
The planned outage will affect a wide range of areas, especially those falling under IESCO’s City Circle, Chakwal Circle, and Jhelum Circle. Some of the main locations include:
1. City Circle (Rawalpindi):
Residents and businesses located in the following zones will experience a power suspension during the maintenance period:
-
EME Complex
-
Jhangi
-
Zircon Heights
-
P&T Wini Feeders
These areas are known for residential complexes, educational institutions, commercial buildings, and other critical services. Consumers have been advised to plan their activities accordingly, especially those relying heavily on electricity for their daily operations.
2. Chakwal Circle:
In Chakwal district, the following feeders and their connected neighborhoods will also be impacted:
-
Patwali Feeder
-
Bhadial Feeder
This part of the region is largely rural, with many small businesses, agricultural services, and households depending on electricity for running water motors, coolers, and farm equipment. The shutdown will temporarily affect daily life, but IESCO assures that all measures are being taken to minimize disruptions.
3. Jhelum Circle:
In Jhelum, the outage will affect:
-
Karsal Feeder
-
Nearby communities linked to the same grid
Jhelum’s localities that rely on this feeder have been informed through both print and digital media platforms. Public announcements have been made to ensure that everyone is aware of the upcoming outage.
Purpose Behind the Scheduled Shutdown
IESCO emphasized that this power suspension is a pre-planned, controlled measure to upgrade the electric infrastructure. The utility company explained that regular maintenance and upgrades are a necessary part of maintaining a reliable electricity system. These upgrades help in:
-
Replacing worn-out equipment
-
Strengthening transmission lines
-
Conducting safety inspections
-
Preventing sudden, unplanned power outages
-
Improving the overall performance of power distribution
IESCO further added that neglecting routine maintenance can lead to unpredictable breakdowns, often resulting in longer and unannounced blackouts which cause far more inconvenience to the public.
IESCO’s Appeal to Consumers
The electricity company has requested full cooperation from its consumers. They have urged people to adjust their routines for the day and complete important tasks that require electricity—such as ironing clothes, charging devices, running water motors, and preparing meals—before 7:00 AM.
Consumers who rely on electricity for medical equipment have been particularly advised to make backup arrangements. Hospitals, clinics, and other essential services in the affected areas are also being advised to ensure their generators or UPS systems are functional before the shutdown.
What IESCO Has Promised
IESCO officials have assured residents that power will be restored immediately after the maintenance work is completed. The company’s technical teams will be on standby throughout the maintenance window to handle any unexpected issues and to ensure a quick restoration of services.
In addition, the company said it has increased coordination with its control rooms and field staff. This ensures that in case of any emergency or extended delay, alternate feeders can be used to restore power more quickly.
Communication and Transparency
In an effort to maintain transparency and minimize confusion, IESCO has made detailed announcements through:
-
Its official website
-
Press releases to local newspapers
-
Social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter)
-
Automated messages to registered mobile numbers of consumers
-
Radio and TV channels
Consumers are encouraged to stay updated via these channels, where real-time information will be provided in case of any changes to the maintenance schedule.
Power Supply and Economic Impact
While a four-hour outage might seem minor, power supply is a lifeline for many daily activities. In urban areas, small businesses, tailor shops, salons, and grocery stores often suffer the most due to power disruptions. Similarly, homes relying on electric pumps for water supply may face difficulties if they do not store water in advance.
On the other hand, frequent, unscheduled outages due to lack of maintenance can damage appliances, computers, and industrial machines, costing thousands in repair and replacement. This is why IESCO’s decision to perform proactive, scheduled maintenance is being seen as a responsible and necessary step.
Economists and utility experts believe such outages are better than unexpected blackouts. “A controlled four-hour shutdown is far better than unpredictable ten-hour outages caused by transformer or feeder failure,” one senior energy consultant explained.
Feedback from the Public
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among citizens. While many people appreciated IESCO’s proactive step and early communication, others expressed frustration about the inconvenience caused, especially during the peak summer heat.
A resident from Zircon Heights stated, “I’m glad they are informing us in advance. I will at least finish my work early and charge everything before 7 AM.”
Meanwhile, a shopkeeper in Patwali commented, “Even four hours without power means four hours without sales. But if this work really helps prevent future breakdowns, I can manage.”
Local administration authorities have also appreciated IESCO for coordinating the shutdown schedule with their teams, especially for areas where traffic signals and streetlights may be affected.
How to Prepare for the Scheduled Outage
Here are some useful tips for residents to stay prepared during the power shutdown:
-
Charge All Essential Devices:
-
Fully charge mobile phones, laptops, and tablets before 7:00 AM.
-
Ensure UPS or backup batteries are working.
-
-
Store Water in Advance:
-
Fill water tanks, bottles, and buckets ahead of time.
-
Avoid unnecessary water use during the outage.
-
-
Plan Your Meals:
-
Prepare meals before the shutdown or store cooked food.
-
Use gas stoves if electric cooking appliances will be unavailable.
-
-
Finish Electrical Tasks Early:
-
Iron clothes, vacuum the house, or do laundry before the scheduled cut-off time.
-
-
Inform Family Members:
-
Let everyone in your home know about the outage so they can also prepare.
-
-
Avoid Using Elevators:
-
Avoid getting stuck by using stairs instead of lifts during the maintenance window.
-
-
Stay Informed:
-
Follow IESCO’s social media accounts or local news to receive live updates.
-
Looking Ahead: Modernizing Power Infrastructure
IESCO’s recent efforts highlight the growing importance of modernizing Pakistan’s power grid. With an increasing demand for electricity due to urbanization and rising temperatures, energy companies must invest in stronger infrastructure.
IESCO has announced multiple projects in the past year focused on:
-
Installing smart meters
-
Automating fault detection
-
Expanding transformer capacity
-
Upgrading underground cabling in urban centers
These investments, while initially inconvenient for consumers due to shutdowns, are expected to drastically improve reliability, reduce line losses, and improve voltage stability.
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Government Oversight and Support
The Ministry of Energy (Power Division) has also praised IESCO and other DISCOs (Distribution Companies) for taking the lead in conducting planned maintenance. The government has been urging all utility companies to adopt global best practices in power management.
An official from the Power Division noted, “Unplanned outages harm public trust and damage economic activity. We are pushing for pre-scheduled, well-communicated shutdowns across all regions. This is the way forward.”
Final Word from IESCO
As the shutdown approaches, IESCO has once again reminded the public: “Please bear with us for these few hours. Your cooperation helps us build a stronger system. We are working for your benefit and doing everything to reduce future inconvenience.”
For further information or complaints, consumers can contact the IESCO helpline at 051-9252937 or visit their official website. Updates regarding power restoration or any changes in the maintenance window will be communicated through digital platforms and local media.
IESCO Announces Scheduled Power Outage on July 12 for System Maintenance: Residents Urged to Prepare in Advance
The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) has officially informed the public about a planned electricity shutdown scheduled for Friday, July 12, 2025. This temporary power outage will take place across several areas in Rawalpindi, Chakwal, and Jhelum circles. According to IESCO, the purpose of this shutdown is to carry out important system upgrades and routine maintenance to ensure a more stable and uninterrupted electricity supply in the future.
Duration and Timing of Shutdown
IESCO stated that the power will remain suspended for four hours, from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, on the said date. During this period, engineers and maintenance crews will perform scheduled technical work on various feeders and substations. This essential activity is part of IESCO’s ongoing strategy to reduce unscheduled load-shedding, eliminate potential faults, and enhance overall service delivery across its operational areas.
Areas to Be Affected by the Outage
The planned outage will affect a wide range of areas, especially those falling under IESCO’s City Circle, Chakwal Circle, and Jhelum Circle. Some of the main locations include:
1. City Circle (Rawalpindi):
Residents and businesses located in the following zones will experience a power suspension during the maintenance period:
-
EME Complex
-
Jhangi
-
Zircon Heights
-
P&T Wini Feeders
These areas are known for residential complexes, educational institutions, commercial buildings, and other critical services. Consumers have been advised to plan their activities accordingly, especially those relying heavily on electricity for their daily operations.
2. Chakwal Circle:
In Chakwal district, the following feeders and their connected neighborhoods will also be impacted:
-
Patwali Feeder
-
Bhadial Feeder
This part of the region is largely rural, with many small businesses, agricultural services, and households depending on electricity for running water motors, coolers, and farm equipment. The shutdown will temporarily affect daily life, but IESCO assures that all measures are being taken to minimize disruptions.
3. Jhelum Circle:
In Jhelum, the outage will affect:
-
Karsal Feeder
-
Nearby communities linked to the same grid
Jhelum’s localities that rely on this feeder have been informed through both print and digital media platforms. Public announcements have been made to ensure that everyone is aware of the upcoming outage.
Purpose Behind the Scheduled Shutdown
IESCO emphasized that this power suspension is a pre-planned, controlled measure to upgrade the electric infrastructure. The utility company explained that regular maintenance and upgrades are a necessary part of maintaining a reliable electricity system. These upgrades help in:
-
Replacing worn-out equipment
-
Strengthening transmission lines
-
Conducting safety inspections
-
Preventing sudden, unplanned power outages
-
Improving the overall performance of power distribution
IESCO further added that neglecting routine maintenance can lead to unpredictable breakdowns, often resulting in longer and unannounced blackouts which cause far more inconvenience to the public.
IESCO’s Appeal to Consumers
The electricity company has requested full cooperation from its consumers. They have urged people to adjust their routines for the day and complete important tasks that require electricity—such as ironing clothes, charging devices, running water motors, and preparing meals—before 7:00 AM.
Consumers who rely on electricity for medical equipment have been particularly advised to make backup arrangements. Hospitals, clinics, and other essential services in the affected areas are also being advised to ensure their generators or UPS systems are functional before the shutdown.
What IESCO Has Promised
IESCO officials have assured residents that power will be restored immediately after the maintenance work is completed. The company’s technical teams will be on standby throughout the maintenance window to handle any unexpected issues and to ensure a quick restoration of services.
In addition, the company said it has increased coordination with its control rooms and field staff. This ensures that in case of any emergency or extended delay, alternate feeders can be used to restore power more quickly.
Communication and Transparency
In an effort to maintain transparency and minimize confusion, IESCO has made detailed announcements through:
-
Its official website
-
Press releases to local newspapers
-
Social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter)
-
Automated messages to registered mobile numbers of consumers
-
Radio and TV channels
Consumers are encouraged to stay updated via these channels, where real-time information will be provided in case of any changes to the maintenance schedule.
Power Supply and Economic Impact
While a four-hour outage might seem minor, power supply is a lifeline for many daily activities. In urban areas, small businesses, tailor shops, salons, and grocery stores often suffer the most due to power disruptions. Similarly, homes relying on electric pumps for water supply may face difficulties if they do not store water in advance.
On the other hand, frequent, unscheduled outages due to lack of maintenance can damage appliances, computers, and industrial machines, costing thousands in repair and replacement. This is why IESCO’s decision to perform proactive, scheduled maintenance is being seen as a responsible and necessary step.
Economists and utility experts believe such outages are better than unexpected blackouts. “A controlled four-hour shutdown is far better than unpredictable ten-hour outages caused by transformer or feeder failure,” one senior energy consultant explained.
Feedback from the Public
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among citizens. While many people appreciated IESCO’s proactive step and early communication, others expressed frustration about the inconvenience caused, especially during the peak summer heat.
A resident from Zircon Heights stated, “I’m glad they are informing us in advance. I will at least finish my work early and charge everything before 7 AM.”
Meanwhile, a shopkeeper in Patwali commented, “Even four hours without power means four hours without sales. But if this work really helps prevent future breakdowns, I can manage.”
Local administration authorities have also appreciated IESCO for coordinating the shutdown schedule with their teams, especially for areas where traffic signals and streetlights may be affected.
How to Prepare for the Scheduled Outage
Here are some useful tips for residents to stay prepared during the power shutdown:
-
Charge All Essential Devices:
-
Fully charge mobile phones, laptops, and tablets before 7:00 AM.
-
Ensure UPS or backup batteries are working.
-
-
Store Water in Advance:
-
Fill water tanks, bottles, and buckets ahead of time.
-
Avoid unnecessary water use during the outage.
-
-
Plan Your Meals:
-
Prepare meals before the shutdown or store cooked food.
-
Use gas stoves if electric cooking appliances will be unavailable.
-
-
Finish Electrical Tasks Early:
-
Iron clothes, vacuum the house, or do laundry before the scheduled cut-off time.
-
-
Inform Family Members:
-
Let everyone in your home know about the outage so they can also prepare.
-
-
Avoid Using Elevators:
-
Avoid getting stuck by using stairs instead of lifts during the maintenance window.
-
-
Stay Informed:
-
Follow IESCO’s social media accounts or local news to receive live updates.
-
Looking Ahead: Modernizing Power Infrastructure
IESCO’s recent efforts highlight the growing importance of modernizing Pakistan’s power grid. With an increasing demand for electricity due to urbanization and rising temperatures, energy companies must invest in stronger infrastructure.
IESCO has announced multiple projects in the past year focused on:
-
Installing smart meters
-
Automating fault detection
-
Expanding transformer capacity
-
Upgrading underground cabling in urban centers
These investments, while initially inconvenient for consumers due to shutdowns, are expected to drastically improve reliability, reduce line losses, and improve voltage stability.
Government Oversight and Support
The Ministry of Energy (Power Division) has also praised IESCO and other DISCOs (Distribution Companies) for taking the lead in conducting planned maintenance. The government has been urging all utility companies to adopt global best practices in power management.
An official from the Power Division noted, “Unplanned outages harm public trust and damage economic activity. We are pushing for pre-scheduled, well-communicated shutdowns across all regions. This is the way forward.”
Final Word from IESCO
As the shutdown approaches, IESCO has once again reminded the public: “Please bear with us for these few hours. Your cooperation helps us build a stronger system. We are working for your benefit and doing everything to reduce future inconvenience.
