Karachi, August 19, 2024 – The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has called on the federal and Sindh governments to urgently address the rising electricity costs that are burdening the residents and business community of Sindh.
In a strongly worded press release, the KCCI emphasized the dire need for relief measures similar to those recently implemented in Punjab.
Highlighting the acute distress faced by the people of Sindh, the KCCI urged the authorities to extend a relief of Rs 14 per unit in electricity bills, mirroring the concessions granted to consumers in Punjab. The chamber argued that the steep electricity rates have become untenable for both individuals and businesses, pushing many to the brink of financial collapse.
“The people of Sindh are also reeling under the pressure of exorbitant electricity bills, and it is becoming increasingly impossible for them to manage their expenses,” the KCCI stated. “The current rates are unsustainable, and without immediate intervention, the business community in Sindh will face severe repercussions.”
The KCCI’s appeal is particularly focused on the survival of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the province’s economy. The chamber warned that without immediate relief, the economic stability of Sindh, especially Karachi, could be compromised, leading to a ripple effect across various sectors.
“We appeal to the President of Pakistan, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Energy to recognize the gravity of the situation and announce immediate relief in electricity bills for the residents of Sindh,” the KCCI urged. The chamber underscored the importance of Karachi in the national economy, noting that the city’s economic health is critical to the overall prosperity of the country.
The KCCI also expressed optimism that the federal government would take swift action to alleviate the financial burden on Sindh’s residents. “Considering Karachi’s pivotal role in the economy, we are hopeful that the federal government will extend the same relief to Sindh that has been granted to Punjab,” the KCCI added.
The chamber’s demand for relief comes at a time when the business community is already grappling with other economic challenges, including inflation and high operational costs. The KCCI’s call for action reflects the growing urgency to address these issues to ensure the sustainability of businesses and the well-being of the people in Sindh.
