Q1

A blackout refers to a sudden and complete loss of electrical power in a specific area, which
leads to a total absence of lighting and the shutdown of electrical devices and appliances.

Blackouts can be brought on by several things, such as faults in the electrical grid, equipment
problems, weather-related events like earthquakes or storms, human error, or even malicious acts
like cyberattacks.

A blackout happens when the electrical power supply system is disrupted or fails, causing a
sudden and total loss of electricity in a particular location or across a larger area. Understanding
the essential elements and weaknesses of the power supply system will help to explain how a
blackout occurs.

Q2
Causes in 2021 Effects in 2021 Causes in 2023 Effects 2023
Engineering Fault at Disruption of Daily National Grid went Disruption of services.
Guddu power plant. Life. down.
Power Generation Economic Impact. Economic crisis. Fuel shortages.
Capacity.
Load Shedding. Hospitals were forced to Currency Communication
use their backup Devaluation breakdown.
generators.

Q3
The Great Northeast Blackout of 2003 struck on August 14, affecting parts of the northeastern
and midwestern United States and Canada. Triggered by a sagging power line in Ohio, it left
around 50 million people (about twice the population of Texas) without power for hours. This
event exposed grid vulnerabilities, leading to improvements in infrastructure and regulations to
prevent similar blackouts.
Another notable blackout occurred on July 13, 1977, affecting New York City. It resulted from
lightning strikes and equipment failures, plunging the city into darkness for up to 25 hours. The
blackout led to widespread looting and arson but also showcased community resilience and
cooperation during challenging times.

Q4
The Pakistan government plays a crucial role in compensating losses resulting from blackouts,
providing financial assistance to affected individuals and businesses. Additionally, they regulate
utility companies to ensure service reliability and invest in infrastructure and energy policies
aimed at reducing blackout frequency and enhancing the resilience of the power sector.

To address losses incurred during blackouts, the Pakistan government offers financial aid and
closely monitors utility companies. Simultaneously, they commit to substantial investments in
infrastructure upgrades and energy policies designed to lower the occurrence of blackouts,
ultimately strengthening the power sector's overall performance.