LAHORE: The All Pakistan Federation of Trade Unions (APFTU) on Wednesday called on federal and provincial governments to address the issue of economic hardships faced by workers across various sectors.

The union demanded a 25 per cent wage increase for workers employed in industry, trade and banks, as well as a 15pc raise in pension to counteract the rising cost of living.

At a press conference presided over by federation secretary general Khurshid Ahmad, the APFTU demanded lower cost of electricity for industry, trade, agriculture and domestic workers. It argued that the soaring electricity prices had exacerbated unemployment and poverty across the country.

The union highlighted the financial burden of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) on the national economy, noting that payments to these producers, despite their low output, have been a significant drain on resources.

It mentioned the IPPs operating below 20pc capacity, yet being paid substantial capacity payments totaling Rs1.95 trillion, with an additional Rs160 billion still under verification.

The APFTU cited examples of three IPPs which were paid Rs370bn despite running at minimal capacity throughout the year.

The APFTU also called for measures to protect electricity workers from fatal and non-fatal accidents, besides highlighting an acute staff shortage, noting that no recruitment has been made in the last six and a half years.

The Nepra reported 70 fatal accidents involving electricity workers last year, with the number continuing to rise.

Published in Dawn, July 25th, 2024