Pakistan's Interim Prime Minister Takes Swift Action to Tackle Outrage Over Soaring Electricity Bills

 Amid public outrage over soaring electricity bills, Pakistan's interim Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar called for an emergency meeting on Sunday to discuss the issue and instructed authorities to implement tangible measures for reducing the costs within the next 48 hours. The meeting, held at the PM's Office, aimed to address the complaints received regarding the exorbitant electricity bills. Protests have erupted in various cities across the country, including Multan, Lahore, and Karachi, demanding a resolution to the issue.

Prime Minister Kakar emphasized that any steps taken should not harm the nation but rather alleviate the burden on consumers while not burdening the national exchequer further. He also criticized the practice of high-ranking officials, including the prime minister, benefiting from free electricity while the public struggled to pay their bills. In response, he directed relevant departments and ministries to submit details of officers enjoying free electricity.

Asserting his commitment to representing the common man, the prime minister pledged to reduce electricity consumption at the PM House and Pak Secretariat. He even urged authorities to turn off the air conditioner in his own room if necessary. The PMO announced that another meeting would be held on Monday, during which the prime minister plans to consult with provincial chief ministers regarding the excessively high bills for July and discuss measures for energy conservation.

Furthermore, the premier requested a roadmap from electricity distribution companies to combat electricity theft. He instructed the relevant authorities to develop a short-, medium-, and long-term plan for reforms within the power sector as soon as possible. In an online post, the interim prime minister assured the public that the interim government would prioritize bringing relief to the people while operating within its mandate.

Several officials, including Interim Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar, Caretaker Commerce Minister Gohar Ijaz, Interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi, Adviser to the PM Kakar Dr Waqar Masood, the power secretary, Water and Power Development Authority chairman, National Electric Power Regulatory Authority chairman, and other relevant individuals, attended the meeting. The prime minister's directives and urgency demonstrate a concerted effort to address the public's concerns regarding inflated electricity bills and bring about reform in the power sector.