K-Electric Defends Load-Shedding Policy Amid Karachi Protests

Frustrated citizens took to the streets across several parts of Karachi to protest against prolonged power outages. In response K Electric has defended its electricity distribution policy stating that supply cuts are strictly tied to high rates of bill non-payment and electricity theft.

Demonstrations and road blockades recently erupted in multiple neighborhoods, including North Nazimabad, Orangi, Gharibabad, PECHS, and Dalmia

Protesters blocked key transit routes to voice their anger over prolonged outages and subsequent water shortages. It severely disrupted daily traffic and stranded commuters.

KE’s Stance on Power Outages

According to a K-Electric spokesperson, continuous electricity supply without any load-shedding is currently being maintained on 70% of the company’s total feeder network across the city.

However, the power company still forces strict power cuts (load-shedding) on the remaining 30% of the area. The company argues that these blackouts are necessary because many local residents do not pay their electricity bills or are stealing electricity.

Millions in Outstanding Dues and Theft

K-Electric highlighted staggering figures regarding unpaid bills and financial losses in the protesting districts:

Orangi Town & Surrounding Pockets:

• Defaulters across areas like New Mianwali Colony, Mujahid Colony, Pathan Colony, Qasba Colony, and Kati Pahari collectively owe PKR 17 billion.
• Individual sectors, such as Frontier Colony and Metroville (PKR 1.04 billion), Khyber Colony (PKR 440 million) and Labourabad (PKR 340 million) face massive dues.

Dalmia & PECHS:

• Protesters from Dalmia accumulated dues exceeding PKR 640 million and regional losses crossed 70%
• In PECHS Block 6 unpaid bills surpassed PKR 27.5 million. Officials note that roughly 3 million units of electricity are stolen from the PECHS Block 6 feeder annually.

Crackdowns and Recovery Efforts

To combat the crisis, K-Electric reported removing over 4,000 kilograms of illegal hook connections (kundas) during targeted operations over the past twelve months.

Additionally, the utility has set up more than 590 facilitation camps to encourage bill settlements.

The power company emphasized that the provision of free electricity is impossible and that timely bill payments alongside the complete eradication of power theft are the only ways to permanently eliminate load-shedding.