ISLAMABAD: Consumers raised multiple grievances during a NEPRA hearing on K-Electric’s right-of-claims, highlighting severe challenges faced by Karachi’s residents and businesses, media reported.
During the hearing, consumers lamented that operating businesses in Karachi has become increasingly difficult due to high electricity costs. “Hundreds of factories have already shut down, and many more are on the verge of closure due to unaffordable power rates,” one consumer stated.
It was pointed out that Karachi’s electricity users are being burdened with surcharges intended to reduce the circular debt. “We categorically reject any additional burden in the form of right-of-claims or other charges,” said a consumer.
Another consumer warned that imposing additional surcharges could lead to law-and-order issues in the city. Questions were also raised about the effectiveness of K-Electric’s privatization.
“What was the purpose of privatization, and has it been achieved? K-Electric continues to produce expensive electricity while benefiting from tariff differential subsidies,” one attendee asked.
Despite granting multiple margins to K-Electric, the issue of escalating right-of-claims persists, leaving consumers frustrated and questioning the overall efficiency of the power utility.
The hearing underscored growing discontent among Karachi residents over the rising cost of electricity and the impact on the city’s economy. –Agencies
