Karachi, February 15, 2025 – The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has strongly criticized the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) and K-Electric (KE) for their alleged failure to pass on the benefits of tariff reductions to Karachi’s consumers.
In a recent statement, KCCI President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani expressed deep dismay over NEPRA’s decision regarding the fuel price adjustment for November, which reflected a modest reduction of Rs 1.23 per unit. “While any reduction is welcome, this falls drastically short of expectations,” said Bilwani. He noted that K-Electric had originally sought a reduction of Rs 4.98 per unit, yet consumers received only a fraction of this amount.
The KCCI highlighted that, despite calculations indicating a tariff reduction of Rs 5.0029 per unit, only Rs 1.23 was implemented, leaving an unpassed benefit of Rs 5.444 billion. “This situation represents a grave injustice to the people and businesses of Karachi,” Bilwani remarked. “KCCI stands firm in demanding accountability from both NEPRA and K-Electric.”
The KCCI President criticized NEPRA for neglecting its mandate to protect consumer interests and accused KE of prioritizing profits over public welfare. He stated, “The business community in Karachi is already burdened by high costs, and this regulatory failure only adds to the economic strain.”
Bilwani also referenced the dissenting views of NEPRA’s Member Tariff, Mathar Niaz Rana, and Member Technical, Rafiq Sheikh. Both officials opposed the limited adjustment and supported granting the full Rs 5.0029 per unit reduction, which would have provided a direct benefit of Rs 7.215 billion.
“The KCCI fully endorses this dissenting opinion,” said Bilwani. “Their stance aligns with the concerns of Karachi’s consumers and the broader business community.”
The KCCI has called on NEPRA and KE to rectify the situation by immediately passing on the full tariff reduction to consumers. Furthermore, Bilwani urged greater transparency and accountability in future adjustments to prevent similar discrepancies.
“Karachi’s consumers deserve fair treatment,” he concluded. “The KCCI will continue advocating for their rights until justice is served.”