Protests erupt in Quaidabad over extended power outages, causing traffic woes

Dozens of residents late at night on Friday staged a protest by blocking the National Highway near Quaidabad in response to an announced extensive power outage, resulting in traffic disruptions, with a long queue reported from Quaidabad to Malir Halt.

Eyewitnesses and rescue officials observed that the sit-in continued for several hours until Saturday, as protesters demanded an immediate end to the frequent and hour-long loadshedding during the peak summer months.

Many residents expressed their frustration, explaining that power outages lasting 12 to 14 hours have severely impacted daily life across multiple neighbourhoods in the city. 

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The lack of electricity has particularly affected vulnerable groups, including women and children, who are suffering in the sweltering heat.

“We don’t know when the electricity will return. Our homes are burning in this heat, but no one listens to us,” Geo News quoted a resident, adding, “All government offices, including K-Electric, are nearby, but they don’t respond. What else can we do but protest?”

The traffic blockade also affected several vehicles transporting sacrificial animals in preparation for Eidul Azha, leaving numerous commuters stranded for hours on the National Highway and surrounding roads.

Protesters vowed to continue their demonstration until K-Electric takes definitive action to ensure a consistent power supply. 

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In response to claims of unannounced loadshedding, a K-Electric spokesperson stated that 70% of its network is exempt from outages and that power cuts are primarily enacted in areas suffering from high losses due to non-payment or theft. 

They clarified that feeders with 100% bill recovery experience uninterrupted electricity and denied allegations of unannounced loadshedding.

Reports of power outages have been widespread, affecting regions, including Malir, Landhi, Korangi, and others, with commercial markets in District Central, East, West, and Korangi also experiencing several hours of disruptions.