Islamabad, June 21, 2025 – The National Assembly Standing Committee on Government Assurances has formally recommended that the federal government explore the induction of a new electricity provider in Karachi, aiming to introduce competition and improve power services in Pakistan’s largest metropolitan city.
The recommendation emerged during deliberations over a calling attention notice submitted by MNA Sardar Nabil Ahmed Gabol, who raised serious concerns about rampant unscheduled load-shedding and inflated billing practices by K-Electric (KE), especially in the underprivileged areas of Lyari and Azam Basti. The committee, chaired by Senator Nuzhat Sadiq, voiced deep concern over the deteriorating state of electricity service delivery in Karachi and urged immediate action.
The committee directed K-Electric to eliminate unscheduled power outages, particularly those lasting more than 10 hours or occurring during early morning hours, which disrupt daily life and economic activity. Furthermore, KE was instructed to install proper metering systems to curb arbitrary billing and to charge consumers strictly based on actual electricity usage.
In a bid to resolve persistent power-related grievances, the committee also directed the Ministry of Energy (Power Division) to organize a special meeting between elected representatives from Karachi and K-Electric officials. This dialogue is intended to address issues such as power theft, delayed meter installations, and prolonged load-shedding. KE has also been ordered to provide detailed data on meter installations in Lyari, including exact locations and coverage status.
This proposal for a new electricity provider marks a pivotal step towards liberalizing Karachi’s power sector, which has long been monopolized by KE. Lawmakers emphasized that bringing in another service provider would create healthy competition, potentially improving consumer experience, ensuring accountability, and ending the longstanding frustration of the city’s residents.
In parallel discussions, the committee addressed separate development issues across the country. These included the establishment of a Protectorate of Emigrants Office in Abbottabad, rehabilitation of flood-damaged highways, and over-billing complaints in Balochistan. The Sui Southern Gas Company Limited (SSGCL) was asked to provide details of funds allocated for road cutting in Karachi, linked to ongoing gas infrastructure projects, and to resolve billing complaints at the earliest.
With Karachi’s electricity crisis worsening, the committee’s call for an alternative electricity provider has gained wide political support. If implemented, the move could transform the power landscape of Karachi, offering residents hope for more reliable and affordable energy solutions.