Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has asserted that Sindh is the energy basket for the entire country, capable of generating cheaper electricity from its abundant coal resources in Tharparkar and setting up gas-run power plants similar to the Sindh government’s Nooriabad power plant.
“The cost of electricity, including its transmission from the 100-megawatt Nooriabad power plant to Karachi, stood at Rs15.80 per unit. In contrast, industries in Karachi are being supplied electricity at rates between Rs48 to Rs52 per unit, which is excessively high. If we are allowed to set up more power plants utilising our province’s gas, we can provide electricity at least 50% lower than the existing tariff within the next three to five years upon the completion of proposed power plants,” he stated at the inauguration ceremony of the three-day 19th My Karachi – Oasis of Harmony Exhibition at Karachi Expo Center on Friday.
He pointed out that although Karachi’s progress and prosperity are pivotal for the entire country, the city’s industries are being forced into inefficiency due to high energy costs. “We must raise a strong voice against such injustices and demand the province’s constitutional right to its gas resources,” he added.
Shah highlighted that Sindh produces 70% of the country’s gas, and according to Pakistan’s Constitution, the province has the first priority on its natural resources, including gas. However, instead of adhering to this constitutional mandate, Karachi’s industries are being forced to use Re-Gasified Liquefied Natural Gas (RLNG), leading to higher operational costs and rising unemployment due to the closure of industries unable to bear the burden of high energy tariffs.
“During these challenging times, the government, industry, and the common man must unite and contribute in whatever ways we can for the progress and prosperity of Karachi, Sindh, and Pakistan,” he urged.
Despite the numerous challenges, Shah commended the resilience of Karachi and its business community, describing the city as not only an Oasis of Harmony but also an Oasis of Hope for the entire country. “Karachi is a city where multiple languages are spoken, attracting people from all over Pakistan and beyond in search of economic opportunities,” he remarked.
Addressing the issue of water shortages, Shah noted that as the K-IV project continues to face delays, the Sindh government is constructing a water canal from Hub. This canal, upon completion in one year, is expected to provide an additional 50 MGD to Karachi. He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts for the progress and prosperity of Karachi, describing it as the heart of Pakistan and crucial for the overall prosperity of Sindh and the country. Shah also acknowledged the efforts to combat street crimes, which remain challenging due to the city’s vast size.
Chairman of the Businessmen Group Zubair Motiwala called for the chief minister’s support in addressing the various issues faced by the business community, including water shortages and energy challenges.
President of KCCI Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh stated, “My Karachi offers an ideal platform for business-to-business and business-to-consumer interactions, complemented by a range of recreational activities that attract a million Karachiites annually.”
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