The Rs. 7.41 per unit relief in electricity rates, announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in April last year, has now been withdrawn. As of today, electricity meters are once again running on last summer’s higher tariff rates. This decision has led to increased electricity costs for consumers across the country, sparking strong public backlash.
Citizens have criticized the government, saying they were led to believe the cut in electricity’s base tariff was permanent. However, it has now proven to be merely a temporary adjustment. Many are now demanding sustainable reforms instead of short-term relief, arguing that the common man needs consistent and long-term support.
On the other hand, Federal Minister for Power, Awais Leghari, claims the government has provided long-term relief to consumers and that only the fuel adjustment charges have changed, not the base tariff.
During a NEPRA hearing, consumers directly questioned officials from the Power Division and the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) about whether the Rs. 7.41 relief would continue. However, the officials avoided giving a clear response.
NEPRA member from Sindh, Rafiq Ahmed Sheikh, expressed frustration and demanded a simple and straightforward answer. The CPPA’s vague responses drew strong dissatisfaction from NEPRA.
It is important to note that in April 2023, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had announced a Rs. 7.41 per unit reduction in power rates to provide relief to consumers nationwide. That relief has now officially been labeled temporary and withdrawn. Previously, the frequent fluctuations in electricity tariffs have already placed a heavy financial burden on consumers.
