DADU: Calling for urgent reforms in the power sector, Pakistan Wapda Hydro Electric Workers Union Chairman Abdul Latif Nizamani has said the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) are increasingly seen as a burden on the national economy.

He was speaking at a ceremony organised by the Kotri Association of Trade and Industry to celebrate Nazamani’s 45 years of his service and his re-elections as the CBA chief.

He said that currently for supplying 16,000 megawatts, the IPPs required a 60 per cent surcharge monthly, even if their electricity was not utilised.

Highlighting the disparities in electricity pricing, he stated that a hydro unit cost around Rs4.36 to generate, yet it was sold to consumers at approximately Rs70 each.

He emphasised the detrimental effects of privatisation on local industries, noting that factories were shutting down due to the lack of affordable electricity.

He urged the government to reconsider the privatisation of 11 public sector companies, stating, “our profits are siphoned off by the IPPs”.

Mr Nizamani condemned government’s decision to terminate daily-wage workers and called for giving permanent status to 20,000 contract workers nationwide, including 553 in Hesco.

He stressed the necessity of salary adjustments in line with inflation and denounced the pension amendment bill as unconstitutional.

Employees and officials from several subdivisions were presented with traditional Sindhi gifts on the occasion.

He said that as frustration mounted over rising electricity cost and operational inefficiencies, the union leadership continued to advocate for necessary reforms to ensure sustainable development in the region.

Published in Dawn, October 7th, 2024