KARACHI: K-Electric, Karachi’s sole electricity provider, restored power supply to Pakistan Railways on Wednesday, hours after disconnecting it over unpaid dues.
According to a Railways spokesperson, a court lifted the stay order secured by KE and directed both parties to resolve the dispute amicably.
Discussions between Pakistan Railways officials, including Divisional Superintendent Nasir Khalili, and KE representatives are currently underway to find a solution.
KE had earlier suspended power supply to Pakistan Railways colonies and installations, citing unpaid dues amounting to Rs430 million across 31 connections. The electricity provider stated that the supply was unsustainable without the payments being cleared, noting that multiple reminders and assurances had gone unfulfilled.
“Despite accommodating Pakistan Railways, these commitments have been dishonored time and again,” KE said in a statement.
The power cut significantly disrupted train operations. Online ticket booking was suspended, and 38 passenger trains running daily from Karachi were affected. Khalili emphasized the economic impact, stating that the Karachi division generates daily revenue of Rs50-60 million for Pakistan Railways.
Khalili also claimed that KE owes Pakistan Railways Rs70 billion in unpaid dues over the past decade. He warned of further actions, including withholding bill payments, if the issue persists.
