While condemning the violent incident of attack on KE’s staff in Timber Market, the utility’s spokesperson said that legal action will be taken against those responsible.
The spokesperson further added “We recognize the public’s concern and sentiment over rising electricity prices. Nonetheless, it is imperative to understand that mistreatment of any company’s staff, neglecting to make bill payments, and violence are inexcusable under any circumstances. In this incident that occurred in Timber Market, K-Electric staff went to disconnect the power supply of defaulters. Without reducing electricity theft and timely bill payments, electricity supply situation cannot improve. We strongly condemn the behavior adopted by Timber market representatives as our staff members were not only detained but also suffered physical harm. We are in close contact with the police and other law enforcement agencies and reserve the right to take any measure within legal parameters.”
Clarifying further, Spokesperson K-Electric stated “The electricity system in Pakistan operates in a regulated environment and the authority to set rates of electricity rests with NEPRA Authority and the Ministry of Energy. K-Electric’s profit and loss are linked to the company’s investment and performance. The company does not makes any profit when the rates of electricity rise nor does it have any role in current rates fluctuation or taxes. K-Electric extends its fullest cooperation with all those people including elected representatives, local dignitaries, and residents who raise their voice against electricity theft and support the company in recovery efforts. Resorting to violence and agitation will not better our circumstances; it is essential to recognize this.”
About K-Electric
K-Electric (KE) is a public listed company incorporated in Pakistan in 1913 as KESC. Privatized in 2005 KE is the only vertically integrated utility in Pakistan supplying electricity within a 6500 square kilometers territory including Karachi and its adjoining areas. The majority shares (66.4%) of the company are listed in the PSX owned by KES Power, a consortium of investors including Aljomaih Power Limited of Saudi Arabia, National Industries Group (Holding), Kuwait, and the Infrastructure and Growth Capital Fund (IGCF). The Government of Pakistan is also a minority shareholder (24.36%) in the company.