PEOPLE of Karachi are once again facing the double burden of prolonged electricity loadshedding and exorbitant and inflated K-Electric (KE) bills. Despite paying some of the highest tariffs in the country, residents of areas like Nazimabad, Gulshan-i-Iqbal and Orangi are subjected to six to eight hours of power outages daily.
The situation often becomes unbearable during the humid monsoon nights when fans and cooling systems are a necessity, not a luxury. Adding to the frustration, the monthly KE bills have seen a rather sharp increase due to the so-called ‘fuel adjustment’ charges.
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has now further increased the per-unit charge, leaving middle-class families struggling to make ends meet. KE claims to be investing in infrastructure, but the ground reality tells us a different story. It invests only in its own interests, not for the benefit of the public.
The authorities concerned must hold KE accountable and ensure uninterrupted power supply. Solar alternatives are not feasible for everyone. The current situation of some areas in Karachi has worsened more than what prevails in rural Sindh.
Despite being the country’s economic hub, Karachi is left to the mercy of an inept utility service. This raises several questions.
The government should intervene before public angerturnsinto street protests.
Himayat Hussain Karachi