Protest Ends After Power Outage Resolution Talks

After constructive discussions with SSP Malir, citizens concluded their 16-hour sit-in near Quaidabad on Saturday, leading to the reopening of the National Highway. The demonstration had commenced late Friday night due to ongoing power outages, disrupting daily routines amid temperatures exceeding 39°C.

Traffic Disruption and Government Response

The protest triggered significant traffic congestion, extending from Quaidabad to Malir Halt, impacting commuters and vehicles transporting sacrificial animals. Sindh Interior Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar responded promptly, tasking law enforcement and administrative bodies with addressing the situation.

Lanjar instructed SSP Malir and DC Malir to collaborate with K-Electric to ensure immediate power restoration in affected areas. Additionally, he directed that protestors receive provisions such as cold water and beverages, and ensured medical access to hospitals for those affected by the heat.

Negotiations and Resolution

SSP Malir was instructed to engage directly with the protestors to facilitate a peaceful resolution. Following negotiations, the demonstrators dispersed, and the National Highway was reopened after 16 hours of closure.

K-Electric’s Stance

In a released statement, K-Electric asserted that 70% of its service area is exempt from scheduled power cuts, with outages limited to areas experiencing high losses due to theft or unpaid bills. They maintained that areas with complete bill recovery receive uninterrupted electricity.

Widespread Outages Persist

However, substantial power cuts have been documented across Malir, Landhi, Korangi, Orangi Town, New Karachi, Model Colony, Surjani, Lyari, and older city sections like Lines Area and Kharadar. Commercial areas, including Jama Cloth Market and Liaquatabad, have also faced extended outages.

The power company acknowledged that 496 feeders are currently subject to up to 10 hours of daily power cuts, while an additional 155 experience shorter interruptions.