Karachi, May 22, 2025 – K-Electric (KE), the sole power distributor in Karachi, has put forward a proposal to slash electricity tariffs by Rs5.02 per unit for March, a move that could save consumers approximately Rs6.79 billion if approved. The announcement was made during a public hearing conducted by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) on Thursday, where KE faced sharp criticism over persistent power outages in the city.
The proposed tariff cut stems from a fuel cost adjustment request, which NEPRA is now reviewing. A detailed decision is expected after the regulator scrutinizes the submitted data. However, the hearing was overshadowed by growing public discontent over prolonged load-shedding, which has worsened as Karachi grapples with soaring temperatures.
Residents voiced their frustration, accusing NEPRA of failing to hold KE accountable for poor service delivery and inadequate enforcement of consumer protection regulations. Many demanded stricter penalties for the utility company, pointing to frequent and unannounced power cuts that have disrupted daily life.
NEPRA member Rafiq Sheikh did not hold back, describing KE’s distribution network as “severely deficient” and dismissing the company’s explanations for the outages. KE representatives attributed load-shedding to challenges in disconnecting power for non-paying customers, claiming their staff often face hostility, including attacks and even hostage situations, despite police presence. Sheikh, however, found these reasons unconvincing, emphasizing that the utility’s operational shortcomings were unacceptable.
Adding to the tension, NEPRA has directed KE to submit a pending inquiry report on the outages, which the company has yet to provide. The regulator’s scrutiny and public outcry signal mounting pressure on KE to address both its service reliability and consumer grievances.
As Karachiites await NEPRA’s final ruling on the tariff reduction, the proposed relief offers a glimmer of hope amid ongoing struggles with power disruptions. The outcome of the review could set the tone for KE’s efforts to rebuild trust with its consumers and regulators alike.
