The Karachi Electric Supply Company continued to carry out load-shedding in various parts of the city despite availability of surplus electricity arranged through different sources.

Load-shedding continues to be undertaken across the country without giving any respite to public. Daily 8 to 10 hour load-shedding is undertaken in Karachi and power is cut off for an hour after every 2-3 hours. Due to the massive load-shedding people observing fast are made to suffer significant distress and frustration while the power breakdowns are severely affecting the trade and business activities.

Meanwhile, according to KESC sources, closure of two thermal units of Bin Qasim and Korangi has led to the current power load-shedding in the metropolis.Mr Zaidi claimed that at most places with illegal connections, the users had been making payments anyway, though not to the KESC but to one or the other local system which had been managing to steal power and distribute it illegally.

On account of electricity, people have already been deprived of the subsidy - a relief which was abruptly withdrawn. Even to the extent that the amount involved for subsidy - was later recovered from the consumers - in 'installments'.

Paradoxically, the people can't get back to the old-age lamps - because the price index of kerosene oil has also swelled - beyond the level of the reach of the poor and middle class.

Thus, along with prolonged electricity load shedding their seems to be no justification in increasing the rates of power - especially when the people are already facing manifold problems - even vis-à-vis the edibles to live-on. We therefore feel optimistic that the government shall reconsider its decision of hike in power tariff - and shall reverse it swiftly.

With this vision, the electricity generating sets-up are ought to be advised to put their vital task and house in order by caging line losses plus allied expenses through a better governance - which is much needed for these organizations.