IEEE PES Karachi Chapter Hosts panel discussion Ensuring Electrical Safety Compliances amid Monsoon Threats

on 20/08/2024

The IEEE PES Karachi Chapter successfully organized a panel talk on “Electrical Safety Compliances in Utilities” at the Sunset Club DHA. This event was part of the chapter’s Monthly Technical Seminar Series, aiming to bring together professionals and experts in the field of electrical engineering to discuss critical safety compliance issues in utilities.
The panel comprised esteemed speakers including Engr. Syed Rifat Ali, Engr. Syed Abrar Ali, Engr. Tahir Saleem, and Engr. Azhar Hussain. Moderating the session, Chair – IEEE PES Karachi Chapter, Engr. Ishtiaqul Haque welcomed all participants and panelists and the event formally started with recitation of Holy Quran.
Engr. Tahir Saleem Shaikh who started the discussion explained the importance of earthing system as to why it is necessary and how significant they are for the safety of compliances in the utilities. He also explained, the various protection systems like leakage current and arc flash protection as per electricity rules and various codes for the safety of individual consumers or user. Engr. Shaikh raised a serious concern towards the audience that, during monsoon rains, the majority of electrocution deaths occurred due to leakage current. The earthing and protection system provided by the utilities in their distribution network on poles are either inadequate or not at all providing protection to humans showing shear negligence of safety compliances.
Adding to the talk, Engr Riffat Ali gave a brief of various federal and provincial laws about the Electricity Act-1910, Electricity Control Ordinance 1965, and NEPRA codes, rules, and regulations on safety. He mentioned that there are various provisions available in codes and rules concerning Earthing, Protection, and Safety. He insisted that the prime objective of safety is to make all efforts to protect people and equipment.
Engr. Azhar Hussain also emphasized the importance of implementing safety rules, highlighting the challenges faced by utilities in this regard. He also underscored the necessity of continuous monitoring of code implementation and the need to provide training to electricians, and electrical supervisors on various safety codes, rules, and regulations.
Sharing his extensive experience working in utilities, Syed Abrar Ali reiterated the critical importance of occupational, functional, and process safety. He underlined the responsibility of consumers and electricity users to ensure safety by using proper earthing systems, installing protective breakers, and utilizing quality products. He stressed that all installation work should be carried out by certified and trained electricians and supervisors and that wiring and related tasks must adhere to correct procedures.
Concluding the talk, Chair – IEEE PES Karachi Chapter, Engr. Ishtiaqul haq thanked all panelists for sharing the insightful information regarding Electrical Safety Compliances in Utilities. He mentioned that this panel talk was need of the moment amid ongoing monsoon rainy season to raise awareness for safety of people and protecting our system equipment.
The event saw a significant turnout of industry professionals, students, and academics. Participants also had the opportunity to engage with the panelists during the Q&A session. This interaction provided a platform for attendees to seek clarifications, share their perspectives, and discuss potential solutions to common safety compliance issues.
At the conclusion of the panel discussion, Chair, IEEE Karachi Section Dr. Tariq Rahim Soomro presented mementos of appreciation to each of the panelists. This gesture acknowledged their valuable contributions and dedication to enhancing electrical safety in utilities. The event concluded with a high tea, allowing attendees to network and discuss the topics further in an informal setting.
The panel talk on “Electrical Safety Compliances in Utilities” was essential considering current monsoon season, which provided valuable knowledge and developed a community of professionals dedicated to improving electrical safety standards. The IEEE PES Karachi Chapter always looks forward to organizing more such informative sessions in the future considering local needs and trending topics for betterment of society and broader PES community. n

Our engineering education and certification systems are outdated: Engr. Waseem Nazir, MD, MMP and candidate for chairman inPEC Election 2024

on 20/08/2024

Can you briefly share the key milestones in your journey as an engineer and leader in the Engineering Sector?
Waseem Nazir: My journey into the field of engineering began at the University of Engineering and Technology (UET), Lahore. While still in university, I was naturally inclined towards entrepreneurship, which led me to co-found a construction business. This venture provided me with valuable, hands-on experience in managing construction projects.
After completing my degree, I spent almost six years in the public sector, working with the Irrigation Department. This period was instrumental in enhancing my understanding of project management, development strategies, and operational challenges along with the bureaucracy and ground realities of Pakistan.
In my late 20s, I decided to further my education by pursuing a Master’s in Civil Engineering in the UK. This experience not only broadened my technical knowledge but also refined my work ethic. My interest in consultancy was piqued during my studies, particularly through my engagement with Sir M MacDonald & Partners. This initial connection eventually led to a professional role with the firm, which later merged with Mott, Hay and Anderson to form Mott MacDonald. While completing my MBA, I was presented with an opportunity to work with Mott MacDonald, and it was during this time that I proposed the idea of establishing a presence in Pakistan to the directors at Mott MacDonald—a proposal that marked the beginning of MM Pakistan (MMP) in 1986.
Starting with just a small team of 2 or 3 individuals, we worked tirelessly, around the clock, seven days a week, to build MMP. Those early days were filled with challenges, but our hard work paid off as MMP steadily grew in both size and reputation. Over the years, I took on more responsibilities and eventually became the Regional Director at Mott MacDonald. A significant highlight of my career was receiving the prestigious Mott MacDonald Chairman’s Award, which recognized the leadership and transformative influence I brought to the company.
In 2017, I got an opportunity to make MMP a wholly independent entity. Since then, MMP has thrived, with our portfolio and revenue more than doubling.
Looking back, the journey has been one of continuous growth and overcoming challenges. From achieving distinctions at Southampton University to becoming one of the youngest Managing Directors in the local market in my early 30s, each step has reinforced my ethos of conquering challenges and excelling in every endeavor I set my mind to.
What do you consider your most significant accomplishments at MMP?
WN: One of my proudest accomplishments is the establishment and growth of MMP. We started as a small consultancy, but today, MMP is involved with a $20 billion portfolio of projects critical to Pakistan’s national and strategic interests.
Today, MMP is one of the largest private sector employers in Pakistan’s engineering industry, providing employment to over 1,000 professionals across more than 50 engineering disciplines.
Our work has set global benchmarks, from designing Pakistan’s tallest building to delivering the country’s first Platinum LEED-certified manufacturing facility, and, as of today, the #1 ranked Gold Standard BRT in the world. Additionally, we are contributing to mega projects with a cumulative reserve capacity of more than 20,000 MW, including the fourth and fifth phase expansion projects of the Tarbela Dam (T4 & T5), Diamer-Basha Dam – the world’s tallest RCC dam -, Suki Kinari HPP – the largest IPP (hydropower) project in Pakistan -, and the Bunji Hydropower Project – the world’s top 10 largest hydropower projects,
MMP has also received significant recognition, such as ENR’s Global Best Projects Award and the British Construction Industry Award. For several years, we ranked first among all local consultancies involved in ADB-funded projects in Pakistan.
What sets us apart is our willingness to tackle the most challenging projects in the national interest—projects that others might shy away from. For example, we’ve taken this challenge to jump into critical projects midway – like the Islamabad International Airport and Convention Center – and take them to successful completion. Where others see insurmountable challenges, we see opportunities to make a meaningful difference.
What are the biggest challenges facing Pakistan’s engineering sectors, and how do you envision overcoming them?
WN: The challenges in Pakistan’s engineering sectors are indeed multifaceted. One of the major issues is the lack of respect and recognition for engineers. Despite their critical role in nation-building, engineers often find themselves undervalued, which can be disheartening. Additionally, our engineering education and certification systems are outdated, making it difficult for our engineers to compete globally.
Another significant challenge is the gap in implementing existing Acts and By-Laws, which has led to the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) straying from its core mandate. To address these issues, we need to work on enhancing the global image of Pakistani engineers, ensuring that our skills align with international standards. We also need to make sure that the right certifications are accessible and affordable for all engineers.
Furthermore, there is a pressing need to foster collaboration between academia and industry, particularly in the area of research and innovation. This collaboration should also extend to encouraging industry to invest in R&D initiatives within universities, where foundational research can lead to groundbreaking innovations. By working closely with academic institutions and supporting their research, industries can not only drive innovation but also help develop our country’s intellectual property and technological capabilities.
It is crucial to advocate for fair treatment and compensation for engineers in the public sector. These professionals are often the backbone of national infrastructure projects, yet they frequently face disparities in recognition and remuneration compared to their private-sector counterparts. Addressing this imbalance is essential for ensuring that our public sector engineers are valued appropriately and can continue to contribute effectively to the nation’s development.
Our engineers have the potential to compete globally, and it is imperative that we focus on exporting skilled professionals, not just unskilled labor. Our companies must provide engineers with the necessary exposure, experience, and opportunities they currently lack compared to their counterparts in countries like India and the Philippines. By bridging this gap, we can ensure that our engineers are well-prepared to excel on the international stage.
Are regulatory bodies effectively dealing with these issues?
WN: Unfortunately, our regulatory bodies, including the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC), have struggled to effectively address these challenges. The lack of institutional capacity has led to an administrative, legal, and accounting structure that doesn’t fully understand or support engineering and development. This weak regulatory framework often hinders rather than facilitates project management and operations, leading to controversies, especially with mega projects.
Moreover, political interference has created a culture of patronage within the PEC, resulting in leadership that often lacks the necessary knowledge and understanding of the profession. Since its inception in 1976, the PEC has been largely run by non-practicing engineers who are disconnected from the realities of the industry. Additionally, the PEC has not actively facilitated R&D or championed the development of “Made in Pakistan” innovations, failing to encourage the growth of homegrown solutions and technologies
Without a strong, independent, and supportive regulatory system, our companies will continue to struggle, and our reliance on foreign engineers, companies and technologies will persist. It’s crucial that we reform these bodies to better serve the engineering community and the nation.
What is your vision for PEG and the future of engineering in Pakistan?
WN: The Professional Excellence Group (PEG) is integral to my vision for transforming the engineering landscape in Pakistan. I established PEG with a firm belief that the existing norms needed to evolve. Engineers deserve respect, their challenges must be addressed head-on, and there should be a forward-looking approach to tackle these issues sustainably. PEG is dedicated to offering ongoing professional development, especially for young engineers, through targeted training, workshops, and mentorship programs.
Our mission is to cultivate an environment where Pakistani engineers are globally recognized as true professionals. I am committed to fostering innovation, raising industry standards, and ensuring that the next generation of engineers is fully prepared to navigate the complexities of the future. PEG is not just an organization; it represents a movement to uplift the engineering profession in Pakistan.
What message would you like to convey to the young engineers of Pakistan?
WN: To the young engineers of Pakistan, my message is clear: take on challenges with confidence and make lifelong learning a priority. The future of our nation’s development is in your hands. With the right blend of skills, commitment, and support, you have the potential to achieve remarkable success and make a significant impact on our country’s progress. Keep in mind that the journey to success is seldom easy, but with determination and perseverance, you can overcome any obstacle.
As you pursue opportunities both at home and abroad, remember that you are not only building your careers but also acting as ambassadors for Pakistan. Your work overseas can be a conduit for foreign exchange and help improve the global perception of Pakistani engineers. By excelling internationally, you contribute to strengthening our nation’s image and showcasing the talent and expertise that Pakistan has to offer. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter and more promising future for engineering in Pakistan.n

The Rapid Growth of Electric Vehicles and its Impact on the Energy Landscape

on 20/08/2024

The automobile industry is transforming due to the swift expansion of electric vehicles (EVs), which also significantly affect the wider energy sector. Government incentives, environmental conscience, and battery technological breakthroughs are some of the causes driving the boom in electric vehicle usage. The growing number of people opting for electric cars is driving up demand for charging infrastructure, causing big shifts in, the distribution, and consumption of energy. A paradigm shift in transportation is being brought about by the growing popularity of electric vehicles, replacing conventional internal combustion engine vehicles that run-on fossil fuels. EVs support international efforts to mitigate climate change by reducing air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. EVs are essential in attaining sustainable mobility as the transportation sector, which has historically contributed significantly to carbon emissions, undergoes a revolution.
The EV market’s expanding influence is not limited to the automobile industry; it also impacts the energy landscape. The demand for electricity to power charging infrastructure develops in tandem with the rise in EV usage. To provide a consistent and robust energy supply in the face of a rise in demand, infrastructure construction and energy planning must take a strategic approach. It becomes imperative to integrate smart grid technologies with EV charging stations in order to improve energy distribution and effectively manage peak demand. Energy storage plays an increasingly important role in enabling the fast expansion of electric vehicles. In addition to powering EVs, battery technologies also support energy storage and grid stability. Utilizing the energy that electric vehicle batteries store during times of low demand, utilities can improve overall energy efficiency and balance the grid. The ability of EV batteries to serve as portable energy storage devices can completely change how energy is used and controlled on a wider scale. The rising need for electrical power for electric automobiles presents difficulties, especially during periods when charging demand is at its highest. To encourage off-peak charging, this calls for the establishment of time-of-use pricing and a planned approach to grid management. Incorporating sophisticated metering systems with intelligent charging infrastructure empowers customers to make well-informed choices on car charging schedules, thereby facilitating load balancing and reducing grid stress.
There are concerns regarding the origins of electricity used to power electric vehicles (EVs) as transportation becomes more electrified. Renewably sourced electricity is required for EV charging in order to fully reap the ecological advantages of this technology. Investments in infrastructure for renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, are necessary to support this transition to a cleaner energy mix and make sure that the increasing demand for electric power from EVs helps create a more sustainable energy supply. Energy firms’ business strategies are being impacted by the growing popularity of electric vehicles. Utility firms are investigating new revenue streams and business models related to infrastructure for EV charging. While some are making investments in public charging networks, others are creating cutting-edge solutions like vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology, which enables EVs to pump excess energy back into the grid during times of high demand. Energy management technology innovation is being stimulated by the electrification of transportation. The energy landscape is changing, and smart grids, demand-side response systems as a whole and enhanced energy analytics have emerged as essential elements. These technologies allow for the optimization of grid performance, the ability to make dynamic modifications to the distribution of electricity, and the smooth integration of electric vehicles into the larger energy ecosystem.
Demand-side management and grid robustness are made possible by the integration of electric automobiles into smart electricity networks. Utilities may optimize energy distribution, lower system peaks, and improve overall grid dependability by utilizing real-time data from charging stations and vehicle-to-grid interactions. An energy infrastructure that is more adaptable and responsive is enhanced by the bidirectional flow of energy between EVs and the grid. Infrastructure development and urban planning are being impacted by the electrification of transportation. Municipalities are funding EV-friendly projects, such as installing public charging stations, offering financial incentives to people who buy EVs, and incorporating EVs into fleets used by public transportation. This change complies with larger initiatives to mitigate the environmental effects of conventional transportation modes and develop livable, sustainable urban environments. A thorough reassessment of energy production, delivery, and consumption is necessary due to the swift expansion of electric vehicles, which is changing the energy landscape. The growing popularity of electric vehicles underscores the importance of incorporating renewable energy sources, advancing energy storage technology, implementing smart grid rules, and enacting supportive government policies. In the years to come, the shift to a more sustainable and electrified transportation sector promises to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency, and fundamentally alter how we see and manage energy.n

PAK-INDUSTRIA on 3-5 September 2024, at Karachi Expo Center

on 20/08/2024

PAK-INDUSTRIA (Emerging Technology Expo & Conference) will be held on 3-5 September 2024, at Karachi Expo Center. The exhibition is being organized to promote the products of “Made in Pakistan”. The “PAK-INDUSTRIA” will facilitate all Industrial Domains to showcase industrial materials. Vendors, suppliers, stockiest, manufacturers, consultants, contractors of civil, mechanical, electrical, HVAC&R, Oil & Gas will visit and find the solutions.
Mr. Muhammad Hasan Masood, the organizer of the event, visited PEC Karachi office and meet with Vice Chairman Sindh, Engr. Mukhtar Shaikh, Engr. Mohsin Ali Khan, Engr. Rehman Sheikh and other governing body members. They expressed best wishes for the event.n

Stage set for highly competitive, closely contested election

on 20/08/2024

Let’s list the salient features evident so far in the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) Election 2024. This effort will help us analyze the situation surrounding the election campaign and may provide insight into which group might emerge victorious.
The first feature that has come to light this time is that ordinary engineers, who typically remain somewhat detached from the affairs of the council, are now gripped by the perception that there is significant mismanagement within the council and that the institution is not being run according to its Act and Bylaws. This perception has been highlighted by allegations made by a member of the Governing Body, who addressed a press conference on public media. Prior to Engr. Zahoor Sarwar, no one had spoken so openly about the council’s affairs, despite such issues circulating within closed circles of engineers. Engr. Sarwar’s critique has undoubtedly caused a number of young engineers to feel disheartened, particularly those who are dissatisfied with their circumstances and are unemployed. Consequently, a significant portion of this group may not turn up to vote in the elections scheduled for August 18.
Setting aside the motive behind Engr. Sarwar’s diatribe, the timing is notably significant as it coincides with the elections. However, what is even more important is that the contestant groups, which typically avoided making allegations against their opponents, have also been drawn into the practice of mudslinging. As a result, a sense of frustration has begun to seep into engineering circles across Pakistan.
Now let’s examine some additional salient features concerning the top leadership of the contesting groups in the PEC Elections. For instance, this election will be the last for many senior engineers actively involved in the election field. Engr. Jawed Salim Qureshi, leading The Engineers Pakistan (TEP), is likely to be among them. Next is Engr. Waseem Nazir, the leader of PEG, who is now heading the PEG-NEA Alliance. Engr. Nazir has announced that he will not contest the PEC Election in 2027, regardless of the outcome of the August 18 election; this will be his third attempt. Also in the running is Engr. Najeeb Haroon—the incumbent chairman of the council—who has already declared that this will be his final election. He attempted to convince Engr. Qadir Shah, the supreme leader of NEA, to back him for a second term but was unsuccessful. Engr. Shah is supporting Engr. Nazir instead of contesting himself this time, which effectively marks the end of Engr. Shah’s engineering political career.
An interesting aspect is that, since all these top leaders are at the culmination of their careers, they appear desperate and have invested considerable effort into their campaigns to secure victory. For instance, TEP and PEG-NEA have designed and executed rigorous campaigns, including inspirational videos featuring their leaders. Some of these leaders promise to reform the council, while others seek to complete their unfinished agendas. Correspondingly, they have leveraged their political connections to gain access to public-sector organizations and engineering education institutions across Pakistan.
Another important factor that should not be overlooked is the influence of academia. A significant majority of the candidates in this election come from academic backgrounds. They have ready-made support networks in the form of their large student bodies, which they can mobilize to secure votes. This makes them highly attractive to each group contesting the elections. Conversely, it highlights the lack of engagement from the many engineers working in the private sector across the country, which has affected the balance within the council’s governing body.
On actual ground
In the PEC Elections 2024, there are six candidates for the office of chairman: Engr. Jawed Saleem Qureshi (TEP), Engr. Waseem Nazir (PEG-NEA), Engr. Najeeb Haroon (PDG), Engr. Al Kazim Mansoor (PEF), Engr. Ashfaq Shah (UEP), and Engr. Ehsan Ullah Bhatti.
Perceptions suggest that Engr. Qureshi and Engr. Nazir are in a close contest. TEP and PEG-NEA have spared no effort in attracting voters across Pakistan. TEP, with its political influence, appears to have a slight edge in Punjab, while PEG-NEA is similarly strong in Sindh. Both groups have significant influence in Balochistan, with a slight tilt in favor of Engr. Nazir, while KP presents a new factor in Engr. Ashfaq Shah. However, the other candidates are also in contention and are likely to attract a substantial number of voters. Engr. Mansoor of PEF, who has noted the number of votes secured by his group’s senior vice president candidate in Punjab, will also leverage his group’s presence in Sindh, KP, and Balochistan.
Engr. Najeeb Haroon, who formed his group after splitting from Engr. Qadir Shah and has mobilized support including political allies in Sindh, is expected to secure votes in that province. His political affiliation in Karachi may help him gain votes, potentially leading TEP to lose some supporters in Sindh.
Engr. Ashfaq Shah, representing contractors in Pakistan, has mobilized engineers across the country, particularly in KP. Although he was part of a movement to distance contractors from the PEC and is less trusted by engineers who prefer contractors to be under council oversight, he is still likely to garner several votes, which could reduce the winning margin for the top candidate. Similarly, Engr. Bhatti will also be a contender for a significant share of votes.
Political Backing
Nearly all the engineering groups have political backing and are utilizing it to their advantage. Political parties such as PML-N, PPP, MQM, ANP, and others are involved in the elections, despite this not being a general election. Interestingly, within Sindh, different factions of the PPP support TEP and PEG-NEA. The support of PTI remains uncertain and could significantly impact the final results of the election.n