FOR the people of Sibi, prolonged load-shedding is no longer an occasional inconvenience — it has become a persistent crisis affecting every aspect of daily life. During peak summer, electricity is not merely a modern comfort; it is essential for survival. When temperatures rise above 45°C, access to electricity becomes critical for running fans, cooling systems, water pumps, medical equipment and communication devices. Yet, the locals continue to endure lengthy power outages that leave homes, workplaces and public institutions without electricity for extended periods.

The consequences are visible across every sector. Students preparing for examinations find it difficult to concentrate in sweltering classrooms and homes. Hospitals and clinics face operational challenges. Government offices and private businesses experience reduced product-ivity, while shopkeepers and small business-owners suffer financial losses because of repeated power interruptions. Daily-wage earners, whose livelihoods depend on continuous work, also bear the burden of these disruptions.

The crisis extends beyond discomfort. Power outages frequently affect water supply. Families are left struggling not only with extreme heat, but also with limited access to water, compounding the hardships of everyday life. The locals have repeatedly raised their concerns through peaceful protests, appeals and requests, but there has been no improvement in the situation.

The authorities should immediately undertake a comprehensive review of electricity distribution in Sibi. Improving infrastructure, reducing unnecessary outages, ensuring timely maintenance and communicating transparently with consumers would go a long way towards restoring public’s confidence. Where technical constraints exist, they should be clearly explained while presenting realistic plans targeting improvement.

Atif Waqas
Sibi

Published in Dawn, August 11th, 2026