People across the country expressed their anger by participating in protests on Friday against the high electricity bills they have been receiving. They took to the streets to make their voices heard.
Demonstrations Outside Distribution Company Offices:
In many cities nationwide, people organized protests and rallies outside the offices of electricity distribution companies. They wanted to show their dissatisfaction with the increasing bills.
Karachi: Jamaat-e-Islami Traders and Workers Protest
In Karachi, members of Jamaat-e-Islami who were traders and workers staged a protest outside K-Electric. They demanded that the recent electricity price hikes be undone. They even cautioned that if the price hike wasn’t reversed, they would prevent K-Electric staff from entering markets.
Nationwide Protests in Various Cities:
Protests weren’t limited to just one place. Many cities saw demonstrations, including Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, Rahim Yar Khan, Gujranwala, Narowal, Kasur, Attock, Sargodha, Peshawar, Haripur, and more.
Multan: Roads Blocked and Slogans Chanted
In Multan, protesters blocked roads and voiced discontent against the Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO).
Gujranwala: Citizens Gather Outside Electric Power Company
Citizens in Gujranwala came together outside the Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO) office to express their frustration.
Voices Raised Against WAPDA and Burning of Bills
People in many cities also protested against the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) and even burned their electricity bills to symbolise their dissatisfaction.
Background: Recent Tariff Increase
Last month, the federal cabinet approved a request from the power regulator to raise the national average tariff. As a result, starting from July 1, 2023, the national uniform electricity tariff was increased by up to Rs. 7.5 per unit. This increase pushed the overall electricity cost, including additional charges and taxes, to over Rs. 55 per unit for certain categories.
Also Read: K-Electric tariff rises by Rs1.55 per unit-Karachi Consumers face a burden.
Conclusion:
The recent wave of protests nationwide reflects a clear and unified message: People are deeply dissatisfied with the surging electricity bills. Citizens from various cities from different walks of life have come together to voice their concerns and demand change. These demonstrations outside the offices of distribution companies, the chants against regulatory bodies, and the symbolic burning of bills all highlight the frustration that has been building up. The protests underline the financial burden many face due to the increased electricity costs and emphasize the power of collective action. The voices raised in Karachi, Multan, Gujranwala, and numerous other cities showcase a shared sentiment beyond geographical boundaries.
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