KARACHI, July 29: Almost half of the city experienced a major power breakdown on Saturday afternoon as supply from national grid remained suspended for some time.

According to the KESC, there was a shortfall of 120-457 MW which affected 21 grid stations, out of total 52 at 1.50pm. The under frequency on the national grid, carrying supply from Wapda to KESC, caused the sudden shortfall, and all the areas linked to the affected grids experienced power failures.

However, the power utility claimed that the power shortfall was overcome as soon as the power supply on national grid was restored in 12 minutes.

The KESC said the affected grids were switched on after a brief span as the problem was resolved. It said that there was no load shedding across the city, and with the help of pleasant weather and energy saving measures, the power utility had a surplus of 136 MW on Saturday.

The KESC spokesman said that the power supply might remain suspended in localities linked to Liaquatabad and Civic Centre grid stations for an hour on rotation due to system constraints. Besides, the KESC has planned shutdowns on Sunday for cleaning the 132KV line in North Nazimabad.

Korangi and Baloch Colony girds would also be subjected to shutdown for maintenance on Sunday.

However, people in various areas complained that the power suspensions continued on Saturday.

A resident of Gulshan-i-Iqbal Block-8 said the power supply was suspended in his locality despite the fact that the power utility had claimed it would not carry out load shedding. He said disruptions in power supply showed hollow claims of the power utility.

Another resident from Federal B Area in Block 15 said the power supply remained suspended for more than 30 minutes in his locality in the afternoon. There was another power breakdown last night.

A consumer from Landhi-4 said the two-hour unannounced loadshedding had been causing sufferings to people.

Another consumer from Malir Halt area said the power suspension twice was a routine and there was no relief to the residents of his locality.