NEPRA in Pakistan recently hosted a webinar titled “Implementation Roadmap – NEPRA’s Information Technology (IT) /Operational Technology (OT) Cybersecurity Regulations.” The event aimed to raise awareness among electric power licensees about complying with these regulations, published in September 2022.
NEPRA Chairman, Mr. Tauseef H. Farooqi, led the webinar. Industry experts, including Mr. Mehzad Sahar of Engro Corporation and Mr. Razi A. Farooqi of K-Electric, also delivered presentations. A large number of power sector professionals participated in the event.
Chairman Farooqi emphasized the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures to defend the power sector’s critical infrastructure against cyberattacks. He explained that adhering to the NEPRA IT/OT Regulations would empower licensees to strengthen their cyber defenses and contribute to the overall resilience of the electric power sector.
Mr. Mehzad Sahar provided a detailed explanation of the regulations. He highlighted the importance of skilled cybersecurity personnel, awareness programs, and ongoing training for successful implementation. He emphasized the critical nature of OT assets and the need for more frequent vulnerability scans in these systems compared to IT systems.
Mr. Razi A. Farooqi addressed the baseline policies, processes, and tools required for implementing the NEPRA IT/OT Regulations. His presentation covered topics such as governance frameworks, hardening of industrial control systems, and a roadmap for implementing operational technology cybersecurity measures.
The webinar concluded with a Q&A session where participants had the opportunity to ask questions of the Chairman and speakers. This event demonstrates NEPRA’s commitment to promoting cybersecurity within the power sector and ensuring the protection of critical national infrastructure.
