Karachi: PPP leader, ex-Minister Sindh Sharjeel Memon emphasised electricity is currently most pressing issue. Electricity bills have become burden for people, causing widespread concern due to inflated bills while Peoples’ Party aims to provide relief to people.

Addressing press conference at Bilawal House here alongside former LG Minister Nasir Shah, he said Peoples’ Party is well aware of energy crisis. During its tenure, party focused on energy projects. In this regard, significant steps were taken. Coal-based plant at Port Qasim is generating 1,320 MW of electricity, while another coal project is producing 2,660 MW. Additionally, Chinese power plant at Lucky Cement is generating 1,320 MW using Thar coal. Despite criticism, coal-fired power generation remains most cost-effective method.

He said 250 MW plant is operational in Ghotki and plans were underway to establish 400 MW solar park in Karachi with World Bank support. He pointed out that estimated billing has resulted in inaccurate electricity charges, which is unacceptable. He stressed caretaker government must provide relief to people during challenging times.

He highlighted PPP was distributing solar panels to 500,000 families, with party covering 90 percent of cost. Families are responsible for remaining 10 percent. Distribution is taking place under BISP programme. Moreover, 200,000 families have been facilitated to generate electricity through solar systems. When 2.1 million houses were being built after floods, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto suggested providing solar systems. Despite challenges, Peoples’ Bus Service continues to offer rides for 50 rupees. Criticising privatisation of K Electric he said its profits should improve system, not pockets of its owners.

In rural Sindh, electricity supply is disrupted for up to 20 hours.

Within 24 days, cries of PTI Chairman became apparent. Those who are awaiting justice with pending appeals should also receive such relief. Many individuals have been languishing in jails for 20 years, including members of Peoples’ Party and various other parties, who were incarcerated for 5-5 years solely under pretext of investigations. VIP justice is unacceptable and there is no example of “Good to See You” and “Ladlaism”.

He said that those who talked to divide people are being granted relief; there should not be double standards. You don’t have time to listen to case of person who made country nuclear power, while those who campaigned against institutions should not be overlooked. He mentioned Chairman PTI is requesting milk and chicken while in custody.

In response to question, he mentioned that Muttahida Qaumi Movement had previously obtained stay order on jobs. PPP used to provide jobs. Individuals who were receiving jobs underwent testing and those who passed tests were given jobs. In this era of inflation, those who were meant to receive jobs were initially on board, but now they are protesting. Nasir Shah said that no matter how many alliances are formed, they cannot rival PPP. He noted while alliances are continually being established, Pakistan Peoples’ Party does not view them as challenge. In Sindh, Party anticipates sweeping victory during elections. After securing elections, party intends to engage in genuine battle against poverty, inflation and unemployment.

Additional charges in electricity bills are matter of concern and PPP insists on their breakdown. Additionally, there are concerns of tampering with electricity bills.

Published in The Daily National Courier, August, 31 2023

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