The All Pakistan Traders Association has declared a nationwide protest on July 1 against the unaffordable electricity bills.
Ajmal Baloch, president of the traders’ community, highlighted that the current electricity bills have become unbearable. He noted that consuming 200 units now costs Rs3,000, while 201 units cost Rs8,000.
In his statement, Baloch condemned the fixed tax ranging from Rs200 to Rs1,000, calling it “unacceptable in any form.” He demanded the removal of the seal tax, income tax, and financing cost (FC) surcharge on electricity bills. He warned that the trader community would protest nationwide if these demands were unmet.
This announcement underscores the growing frustration among businesses over rising electricity prices and taxes, which they argue are making it difficult to sustain operations.
The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority introduced new electricity tariffs earlier this month, effective July 1. These tariffs include fixed monthly domestic, commercial, and industrial consumer charges.
Industrial consumers face increased fixed charges: those using up to 25kW will pay Rs1,000, B2 category consumers (up to 500kW) will pay Rs2,000, and B3 and B4 category consumers (5000kW and above) will also pay Rs2,000.
On June 14, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a significant reduction in electricity tariffs for industries by Rs10.69 per unit to improve the country’s industrial sector and boost exports.
The traders’ protest clearly indicates the widespread discontent with the current electricity pricing and tax policies, calling for immediate government intervention.
