Karachi: Mian Zahid Hussain, a prominent business figure and former provincial minister, warned of increasing potential conflicts between the public and power companies over escalating electricity bills, which he reported are now often exceeding household incomes.

According to Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, during a discussion with the business community, Hussain highlighted the severe impact of high electricity bills, which he claimed are causing domestic disputes and even violent confrontations. He criticized the structure of capacity payments, suggesting they disproportionately penalize the general public and the industrial sector, contributing to broader social unrest.

Hussain also pointed out that a significant portion of Independent Power Producers (IPPs), which he claimed are owned by elites and the government, are profiting excessively at the expense of the public. He urged the government to take swift action to address these issues to prevent the country from descending into lawlessness and potential bankruptcy.

The business leader further noted that despite some efforts by the government, including directives from the Prime Minister to reduce electricity costs for industries, a long-term solution to the systemic issues in the electricity sector remains elusive. He emphasized that non-developational government expenditures continue to rise, making it increasingly difficult to manage public perceptions and expectations.

Hussain concluded his remarks by calling for a forensic audit of the IPP agreements, questioning why such contracts continue to result in substantial annual losses to the nation while enriching only a few. He stressed that without significant reforms, both the general populace and the upper classes would face dire economic consequences.