Early markets closure
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has proposed closing markets across the country at sunset to reduce electricity consumption. The government has sent this proposal to all provincial governments, intending to implement it from October 1 to February 15.
Provincial governments have been instructed to collaborate with trader organizations and commerce chambers to determine the final timing.
The Pakistan Democratic Movement government had previously suggested a similar plan but failed to enforce it.
Early markets closure: The government has proposed this to save electricity.
In response, the All-Pakistan Anjuman-i-Tajiran has expressed that timings should not be established without comprehensive consultation with traders.
According to the Anjuman’s statement, timings should be set for both summer and winter seasons, once and for all.
Traders have also insisted that electricity be provided at half the regular prices from 8 in the morning to noon, with no load shedding during these hours. The statement further noted that electricity should be priced normally from 12 pm to 6 pm.
The traders also emphasized that simultaneous market closures in major cities lead to traffic congestion, necessitating the development of appropriate traffic plans.
IMF relief or a joke with consumers
Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund approved some aspects of the government’s proposals aimed at providing relief in electricity bills.
The government contacted the IMF again, but the latter rejected the proposal to provide relief to consumers using up to 400 units of electricity.
However, the Fund approved relief for individuals using up to 200 units of electricity. The consumers with less than 200 units will only get relief of payment in installments. This relief seems to be a joke with the poor power consumers in the country.
This measure is expected to offer relief to approximately four million consumers nationwide. The approval of the 400-unit proposal would have extended relief to 32 million people.
Nonetheless, the IMF has ordered the government to combat electricity theft and improve bill collections.
Additionally, the Fund has demanded a 45 to 50 percent increase in gas tariffs, pending cabinet approval.
The government has been working to find solutions following widespread protests against high electricity bills across the country.
However, it has faced the challenge of balancing consumer relief with adherence to an IMF program.
