Karachi traders reject inflated electricity bills

Karachi: Karachi's trading community on Friday united against what they perceived as exorbitant electricity bills issued by K-Electric (KE), rejecting the recent hike in power tariffs.

A demonstration was held at Bolton Market where traders voiced their concerns.

President of the Karachi Electronic Dealers Association (KEDA), Mohammad Rizwan Irfan, spoke out about the economic difficulties faced by both businesses and the public due to recent inflation. He pointed out the rising unemployment rates and street crimes as alarming consequences of the current situation. Rizwan Irfan issued a stern warning that a nationwide strike could be on the horizon if the government fails to address their grievances.

Chairman of the All City Traders Union (ACTU), Sharjeel Goplani, emphasized that the traders were unwilling to pay the newly inflated electricity bills, which have surged by an astonishing 200 percent. The displeasure stems from a considerable increase in base tariffs, as authorized by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) at the request of the federal government in July.

Under the new tariff structure, effective from July 1, 2023, specific categories of consumers have been impacted differently. Lifeline consumers have been spared from the tariff hike. Those consuming up to 100 units in a month will continue to pay the pre-hike rate.

For those consuming 101 to 200 units, the tariff has risen by Rs4, reaching Rs22.95 per unit. Similarly, consumers using 201 to 300 units will now pay Rs27.14 per unit after a Rs5 increase. The tariff for consumption in the range of 301 to 400 units has surged by Rs6.5 to Rs32.03 per unit.

Finally, for consumers utilizing 401 to 500 units, the tariff has been raised by Rs7.5, resulting in a new rate of Rs35.24 per unit.