In a continuation of public unrest, citizens across the nation continued their protests on Monday against escalating electricity bills, while the government prepares for a second round of deliberations on the matter.
The uproar began on Saturday due to the substantial rise in the national average tariff, leading to citizens taking to the streets in large numbers to voice their displeasure over the exorbitant power bills. Responding to the public outcry, interim Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq swiftly convened an “emergency” meeting on Sunday to address the issue.
However, yesterday’s meeting did not yield conclusive results, prompting the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) to announce a further round of discussions scheduled for today.
Information Minister Murtaza Solangi revealed, “The power meeting will continue throughout Monday, during which some relief will be extended to electricity consumers.” He emphasized the delicate balance between fiscal constraints and addressing consumer concerns. “Our room for maneuver between primary surplus and current account deficit is limited, but we are committed to taking meaningful action in this regard,” he added.
Solangi divulged that the interim prime minister is exploring various options to alleviate the plight of power consumers. Nevertheless, he refrained from disclosing specifics until a final decision is reached.
He also conveyed the government’s stance against the unjust distribution of electricity costs, highlighting that the burden should not fall disproportionately on the poor while elite individuals and institutional officers enjoy free electricity.
Prior to the government’s forthcoming meeting, Jamaat-i-Islami announced a nationwide strike slated for September 2, protesting against the electricity bills.
Nationwide Protests Persist
Citizens continued to voice their discontent through protests across the nation for the fourth consecutive day. Reports from DawnNewsTV indicated demonstrations in Bhawalnagar, Layyah, and Lahore.
In Peshawar, demonstrators obstructed Kohat Road, denouncing the high electricity costs coupled with prolonged power outages. The protesters set tires ablaze and directed slogans of dissatisfaction at the Peshawar Electric Supply Company (Pesco).
Charsadda also witnessed a demonstration as protesters blocked Farooq Azam Chowk and chanted slogans against the Water and Power Development Authority (Wapda).
One protester passionately stated, “The surge in electricity prices is burdensome for the underprivileged. People are unable to bear additional taxes.”
In Battagram, citizens rallied on the call of the traders’ union president, blocking the Karakoram Highway. They voiced their grievances against the government’s imposition of inflated electricity bills, which they deem unaffordable.
Government’s Commitment to Deliberation
During Sunday’s meeting, it was revealed that electricity worth Rs1 billion was being provided without charge to Wapda/Discos employees, while regular citizens were paying up to Rs42 per unit. The Prime Minister’s Office released a statement quoting PM Anwaarul Haq, asserting, “We will not take any hurried measures that could harm the country. Our actions will not further burden the national treasury and will benefit consumers.”
The PM voiced his stance on equitable distribution, stating, “It is unacceptable that citizens bear the brunt of difficulties while high-ranking officials and the prime minister continue to avail themselves of free electricity funded by taxpayers.” He instructed relevant departments to provide details of officers receiving complimentary electricity.
Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq pledged to implement energy conservation measures at the PM House and Pak Secretariat, reflecting his commitment to representing the common man.
He further disclosed his intention to engage with provincial chief ministers to discuss July’s inflated bills and strategies for energy conservation.
The premier demanded a roadmap from electricity distribution companies to combat electricity theft and requested the prompt submission of short-, medium-, and long-term reform plans for the power sector.
Read more: PM Calls Emergency Meeting Following Protests Over Soaring Electricity Bills
Through a statement on social media, PM Anwaarul Haq affirmed the interim government’s dedication to alleviating public distress while adhering to its mandate.
As protests persist and public sentiment remains charged, the government faces the challenge of striking a balance between fiscal prudence and citizens’ demands for fair electricity pricing.
