The President of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), Johar Qandhari, has raised concerns over the government’s delay in releasing the Rs 33 billion incremental subsidy on electricity. Despite repeated demands from Karachi’s industrialists, the government has yet to take action, which Qandhari describes as alarming.

Qandhari emphasised that the ongoing delay exacerbates the difficulties industrialists face in Karachi. While the federal and provincial governments are actively addressing electricity issues and providing temporary relief measures, Qandhari pointed out the lack of a permanent solution.

He urged the government to promptly resolve matters with K-Electric to release the subsidy, offering immediate relief to the city’s industrial sector. Qandhari also warned that the high cost of electricity and the lack of competitiveness are not just driving industrialists to consider relocating abroad but could potentially lead to widespread industrial closures, increased unemployment, and severe economic repercussions.