Lahore, Dec 11: President Pervez Musharraf has said that even if India does not agree to the terms of the Iran-Pakistan-India gas pipeline project, Pakistan will continue negotiations to import gas from Iran.

"We also need to increase our gas output to meet the country’s industrial and domestic needs, " Musharraf further said.

Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the 136 MW Bhiki Power Plant at Bhiki, he urged the need to ensure short-, mid- and long-term strategies to cover the power shortage in the country.

Musharraf stressed the need to increase power generation for a fast-growing industry and economy, and urged the private sector to make use of all available resources in this regard.

The last five years have seen a lot of economic growth, and the energy demand has increased manifold during this period in all sectors, he observed.

He said electricity can be made through gas, coal and water and the private business concerns should utilise these resources to meet national energy requirements.

Pervez Musharraf announced that WAPDA, which was restricted in the past to install power plants, would also be allowed to set up plants to meet the country’s increased energy requirements.

"We have to make a short term strategy at the earliest as power demand will double in the next four years, " he added.

Musharraf also said that he would continue to play his role for the uplift and betterment of the country by inaugurating such projects, The Nation reported.

Earlier, on his arrival to Sheikhupura, the angry lawyers’ took out a protest rally. The rally was participated by hundreds of lawyers.

They chanted slogans against President Musharraf and said their struggle for judiciary and restoration of judges will continue till achievement of objectives. (ANI)