Citizens suffer as unannounced load-shedding continues in Karachi
Power cuts in Karachi continue unabated with up to six hours in areas that are exempted. The rising frequency and hours of power outages has citizens worried. Power was cut off for up to 12 hours in different parts of the city. Owing to the extreme heat, citizens of several areas also had to face a water shortage as they were unable to switch on their water pumping motors. Separately, there have also been incidents of motorcycles parked outside in the heat catching fire. Although K-electric has said that the balance of demand and supply has improved, consumers remain unconvinced and suspect that loadshedding is being done in the name of ‘routine technical repair work’. K-electric has however categorically stated that there is no unannounced load-shedding in the city. While businesses and traders have termed the increase in alleged unscheduled load-shedding as severe impediment in doing business, teachers have complained that they are simply unable to schedule or conduct online classes with such frequent power outages.
GOVERNOR SINDH SUMMONS K-ELECTRIC CEO:
Earlier in the week, Sindh Governor Imran Ismail took notice of “continued unannounced load shedding” and has directed the K-electric Chief Executive Officer Moonis Alvi to take personal interest in the ongoing prolonged and unannounced electricity breakdowns in different parts of the metropolis and address the grievances of the Karachiites immediately. Imran Ismail summoned the chief of KE — the utility company responsible for power supply in the city — following reports of increasing outages in the city. During the meeting, Ismail directed the KE CEO to “personally supervise” matters related to load shedding in Karachi and “immediately resolve” the complaints of citizens, a statement issued by the Governor’s House said. The Sindh governor also made telephonic contact with Federal Minister for Energy Muhammad Hamad Azhar during the meeting and called for improving the situation regarding electricity supply in the city. Azhar issued directions to the KE CEO during the call as well, the statement said.