In Lahore, the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) EmployeesUnion held a protest advocating for the continuation of free electricityfor WAPDA employees. This demonstration came about due to rumors that thecaretaker government might terminate the provision of free electricity toWAPDA workers. The President of the WAPDA Union warned of a strong responseif the free electricity benefit was taken away from employees. He alsoinsisted on the removal of all taxes on the bills and an end to politicalintervention in the sector.
The surge in power bills has led to nationwide protests from Karachi toKhyber, with some protests escalating into violence. The protesters areurging the government to stop providing free electricity to influentialindividuals and instead provide relief, given that their bills surpasstheir incomes. This situation has prompted Lahore traders to announce ashutter-down strike on September 2 in protest against the high electricitybills.
The discontent regarding electricity bills has spread widely, triggeringdemonstrations in various parts of the country. The demand remainsconsistent: the government should address the issue of excessive bills thatare overshadowing people’s earnings and consider discontinuing theprovision of free electricity to those in privileged positions. As thesituation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will respond tothese widespread concerns.
