Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, is enduring severe power outages, with some areas experiencing up to 12 hours without electricity each day. Residents of North Karachi, in particular, are grappling with the hardships caused by these frequent blackouts, compounded by rampant electricity theft. Local media reports, including The Express Tribune, reveal the scale of the disruptions affecting everyday life in the region.
Power Outage Schedule
North Karachi residents report a strict and exhausting blackout schedule. Power is cut from 7:00 am to 8:30 am, 9:30 am to 12:00 pm, 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm, and again from 7:00 pm to 10:30 pm. In addition to these scheduled outages, unscheduled blackouts occur without warning, further intensifying the residents’ challenges.
Daily Struggles and Health Impact
These power cuts are taking a significant toll on the local population, especially laborers who come home after long shifts only to find themselves without electricity in sweltering conditions. Residents are often forced to stay awake until the early hours of the morning to complete essential chores such as refilling water supplies. Children, too, face difficulties in completing their homework during the blackouts, disrupting their education.
Widespread Electricity Theft
Illegal electricity connections, known as “kunda” connections, are a growing problem in Karachi. Criminal elements have exploited the weaknesses in the city’s power utility, Karachi Electric (KE), to supply illegal electricity to over 250 homes. Residents using these connections are reportedly charged hefty fees—PKR 10,000 upfront and PKR 3,000 monthly.
Karachi Electric’s Struggles
Karachi Electric, the city’s main utility provider, faces criticism for mismanagement and ageing infrastructure. While efforts are being made to upgrade electrical facilities and implement new regulations, these improvements take time and have not yet alleviated the city’s power crisis.
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