NEPRA has made it abundantly clear that it holds K-Electric responsible for the safety of all citizens, irrespective of their circumstances
By Ishrat Jahan
KARACHI: In a provocative response to the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), K-Electric, Pakistan’s largest private electricity supplier, has sparked controversy by attributing the recent electrocution deaths of 33 individuals in its service areas to the actions of “unknown” individuals. This assertion came in the wake of accusations of negligence levied against the company, following tragic incidents that have left families mourning their loved ones.
K-Electric’s report took an alarming turn as it identified many of the deceased as individuals engaged in illegal activities, including drug addiction and theft. The company alleged that some of these individuals were electrocuted while attempting to steal underground cables, suggesting that their deaths were a consequence of unlawful behavior rather than corporate negligence. This explanation, however, has drawn significant backlash. Just last month, NEPRA dismissed K-Electric’s claims and imposed a fine of PKR 10 million on the utility for failing to ensure public safety.
NEPRA has made it abundantly clear that it holds K-Electric responsible for the safety of all citizens, irrespective of their circumstances. The regulator stated that exposed power lines and unprotected electric installations pose risks that cannot be overlooked. In a similar vein, NEPRA also fined Gujranwala Electric Power Company (Gepco) PKR 23 million following nine electrocution deaths in its jurisdiction, rejecting its explanations for the tragedies. In a bid to address the fallout from these incidents, NEPRA mandated Gepco to compensate the families of victims with PKR 4 million each and provide employment opportunities to family members of the deceased.
These actions reflect NEPRA’s renewed determination to enforce stringent safety protocols within Pakistan’s utility sector, a domain plagued by allegations of negligence and inadequate oversight. The regulator’s firm stance not only highlights the urgent need for accountability and transparency but also serves as a cautionary tale for other service providers. It sends a strong message about the paramount importance of public safety, emphasizing that such standards must be upheld at all times, regardless of the circumstances surrounding tragic incidents.
