K-Electric has started load shedding in several areas of Karachi that were previously exempted from power cuts, while also increasing the duration of outages in areas already experiencing scheduled load shedding, causing difficulties for residents. The power utility has reportedly begun implementing one-hour load shedding in phases in areas previously exempt from scheduled power cuts. However, electricity supply in several localities has remained suspended for more than two hours.

Areas affected include Saddar, Clifton, Defence Housing Authority (DHA) and Korangi, along with Orangi Town, Liaquatabad, North Karachi and North Nazimabad. Residents of Malir, Landhi, SITE, Baldia, Mauripur, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Gulistan-e-Jauhar, Gulshan-e-Hadeed and Scheme 33 have also faced power outages. Severe load shedding has additionally affected the Old City Area and Razzaqabad.

K-Electric has attributed the power supply constraints to a shortage of liquefied natural gas (LNG), which has affected electricity generation. The utility has reportedly introduced load management measures in response to the reduced generation capacity. The additional outages have further increased the difficulties faced by residents across Karachi, particularly in areas already subject to prolonged load shedding.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)