Islamabad, Apr 8, 2025: Equal Power Tariffs have become a critical demand echoed once again by Ahmed Azeem Alvi, President of the SITE Association of Industry Karachi, who appreciated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s recent announcement of a Rs. 7.59 per unit reduction in electricity prices for industrial sectors.
While this relief has been welcomed as a positive step toward energy reform, Alvi urged the government to take a bolder stance by ensuring Equal Power Tariffs across all regions especially aligning Karachi’s rates with those of other major cities.
According to Alvi, power tariffs in Karachi are unjustifiably higher, with a gap of Rs. 8 to 9 per unit compared to the rest of the country. This disparity, he noted, hampers the port city’s ability to compete fairly and fully contribute to Pakistan’s economic progress.
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Equalizing tariffs would address this long-standing grievance and enhance Karachi’s industrial productivity a demand echoed by thousands of manufacturers in the region seeking fairness and sustainability.
He further elaborated that the recent tariff cut brings much-needed relief to industries struggling under the weight of exorbitant energy bills. Lower electricity costs mean reduced production expenses.
Which is especially advantageous for export-driven industries aiming to boost their international competitiveness. This move could stimulate exports a key pillar of economic development and catalyze long-term stability in the manufacturing sector.
Equal Power Tariffs, he emphasized, are not just a matter of economics but of equity. The current system, where electricity generated by KANUP is supplied first to WAPDA and then redistributed to K-Electric, has created inefficiencies and dependencies.
Though K-Electric was once offered direct access, concerns over reliability from a single energy source prevented action. However, viable solutions exist including the utilization of local resources like Thar coal to support Karachi’s power needs sustainably.
Alvi pointed out that areas like Gadap and Kathore are already reaping the benefits of affordable WAPDA electricity. Extending similar provisions to Karachi’s broader industrial zones would stimulate economic expansion and generate substantial job opportunities.
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With Karachi accounting for over 51% of Pakistan’s exports and contributing more than 60% to the national exchequer, Equal Power Tariffs are not just a regional necessity but a national imperative.
He also urged the Prime Minister to abolish the PHA surcharge for Karachi, arguing that the city’s consumers do not contribute to the circular debt.
Mr. Alvi concluded with optimism, expressing support for the Prime Minister’s economic vision and reaffirming the business community’s hope for a more balanced energy policy.
