Karachi residents take to streets in protest against prolonged power outages
KARACHI: Power riots erupted in parts of the city on Saturday as residents staged hours-long protests against prolonged and unannounced electricity outages, blocking major roads and burning tyres to demand immediate restoration of power. The demonstrations took place in Pak Colony, Liaquatabad, Gharibabad, Nishtar Road, Bhimpura and Ranchore Line, bringing traffic to a standstill in key parts of…
Karachi residents took to the streets in protest on Saturday against extended and unscheduled power outages, causing chaos in key areas of the city. Demonstrations occurred in Pak Colony, Liaquatabad, Gharibabad, Nishtar Road, Bhimpura, and Ranchore Line, with road blockages resulting from the marches. Traffic came to a standstill in major parts of Karachi, leaving thousands stranded.
In Liaquatabad, protesters blocked major intersections, disrupting traffic between Civic Centre and Liaquatabad. Pak Colony residents, along with local union members, held rallies to voice their frustration over the prolonged daily power cuts and subsequent water shortages. The road closures caused severe congestion, spilling into district South and neighboring areas.
Chup Tazia processions were also being held on Saturday, further exacerbating traffic issues. Commuters faced travel times of up to four hours, and some residents reported their food spoiling and children unable to study due to the power cuts. Despite paying their bills on time, citizens in Karachi were enduring up to 12 hours or more of daily electricity outages.
KE spokesperson claimed that outstanding dues in certain areas exceeded Rs3 billion, attributing the duration of loadshedding to electricity theft and defaulting on bills.
Written by urgent.news from Dawn - Pakistan's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
