Pakistan’s energy chief defends government after nationwide power cut

Much of Pakistan was left without power on Monday as an energy-saving measure by the government backfired (KM Chaudary/AP)

Pakistan’s energy minister has defended the government following a major, day-long power cut that disrupted normal life across the country and drew criticism from millions who were left without electricity amid harsh winter weather.

Monday’s blackout engulfed schools, factories and shops, and many of the country’s 220 million population were left without drinking water as pumps powered by electricity also failed to work.