IMF Approves Relief Plan for 4 Million Consumers with Monthly Power Usage Below 200 Units
In response to widespread protests against soaring electricity bills, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has granted approval to a relief proposal for consumers using up to 200 units of electricity per month. This plan, pending federal cabinet approval, is expected to provide temporary relief to approximately 4 million consumers.
Regrettably, the IMF rejected the government’s proposal to extend relief to consumers using up to 400 units of electricity per month, potentially benefiting 32 million consumers.
The IMF also emphasized the importance of addressing electricity and gas theft and enhancing revenue collection.
Furthermore, the IMF has proposed a 45 to 50 percent increase in gas tariffs, effective from July 1, pending federal cabinet approval.
In response to ongoing protests against high power bills and additional taxes, the caretaker government in Islamabad, led by Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar, has actively engaged with the IMF to provide immediate relief to electricity consumers in Pakistan, where inflation is on the rise.
It’s worth noting that Pakistan currently operates under an IMF program, making any relief or subsidy subject to IMF approval.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
