Pakistan's Power Sector Faces Consumer Complaints and Electricity Shortages
Pakistan's National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has witnessed a significant increase in consumer complaints against electricity distribution companies in the first three months of the current fiscal year. A total of 12,938 grievances were registered with NEPRA, highlighting concerns about service quality and reliability.
Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) received the highest number of complaints (3,588), followed by Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) with 2,302 complaints and Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO) with 2,177 complaints. Karachi's K-Electric also faced 1,268 complaints during the same period.
In September, NEPRA imposed a fine of PKR 10 million on LESCO for failing to implement safety measures. This incident further underscores the challenges faced by Pakistan's power sector in ensuring both reliable service and public safety.
Meanwhile, residents of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) continue to grapple with severe electricity shortages. Mumtaz Hussain Nagri, chairman of the Karakoram National Movement, highlighted that residents receive only two hours of power supply within a 24-hour period. He also expressed concerns about the lack of subsidies in the region, comparing it to India's support for essential items.
Karachi residents also staged a protest on October 26 due to ongoing water and electricity outages. The Express Tribune reported that the city has been experiencing severe load-shedding for the past week, leading to power cuts during the daytime.
These incidents highlight the urgent need for Pakistan to address the challenges within its power sector. Ensuring reliable electricity supply, improving service quality, and implementing safety measures are crucial for both economic development and the well-being of its citizens.