The Caretaker Minister for Power, Muhammad Ali, has made a significant announcement linking the recent decrease in electricity prices to the depreciation of the dollar. According to Minister Ali, the government is currently focused on recovering outstanding bills, as over 60% of them remain unpaid.
Addressing concerns about the closure of major national companies such as Pakistan International Airlines and Pakistan Steels, the Minister emphasized the need to preserve jobs and livelihoods. Shutting down these companies would result in thousands of employees losing their jobs.
Minister Ali further assured the public that action will be taken against power theft in five power distribution companies (DISCOs). He expressed confidence that the situation will gradually improve as these measures are implemented.
Earlier today, the Caretaker Prime Minister, Anwaarul Haq Kakar, instructed the relevant authorities to take immediate action against defaulters and power thieves amidst the ongoing protests against inflated electricity bills. The Prime Minister stressed that no concessions should be given to defaulters and power thieves during the operation.
Inflated power bills have sparked protests across the country, from Karachi to Khyber, with some demonstrations turning violent. Protesters demand an end to the provision of free electricity to influential individuals and urge the government to provide relief, considering that the bills they receive often exceed their salaries.