Karbala: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani emphasized that the development of electricity transmission and distribution projects is key to addressing the issue of power losses and enhancing the efficiency of the national grid.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani on Thursday inaugurated, via video conference, a 180-megawatt power substation in southern Old Karbala, along with several power supply lines, congestion relief projects, and prefabricated distribution stations in the province. He also inaugurated Al-Kifl substation and oversaw the expansion of several stations in Najaf, Babylon, and Diwaniyah, in addition to key power supply projects in the central Euphrates region, all part of a broader national grid decongestion plan.

Al-Sudani noted that last year’s Arbaeen pilgrimage revealed significant weaknesses in the power distribution network, particularly under high load conditions. This led to the directive to establish a dedicated network to support power during pilgrimage seasons, with necessary financial allocations secured. He praised the efforts of workers operating under harsh weather conditions and around the clock.

The Prime Minister stressed that improving the power sector is not limited to adding generation capacity, but also requires strengthening the supporting sectors of transmission and distribution. He explained that the new projects will help recover a large portion of lost electricity and enhance the grid’s flexibility and efficiency, while also calling for rational energy consumption.

Al-Sudani also underscored the need for officials to consider the special status of the holy cities of Karbala, Najaf, Kadhimiya, and Samarra, which experience significant visitor traffic. He noted that Karbala International Airport, expected to open in the coming months, will serve as a major hub for incoming pilgrims, necessitating advanced infrastructure and services.