Protests against high electricity bills in Pakistan have escalated as the government refuses to reduce energy prices without approval from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Last week, a significant increase in electricity prices sparked protests in major cities, with people burning utility bills, blocking highways, and attacking power company offices.
Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar has promised relief. However, on Tuesday, his cabinet stated that reducing the bills would jeopardize a substantial IMF loan.
The IMF imposed stringent conditions on Pakistan to eliminate energy subsidies and meet revenue targets in exchange for a $3bn loan in July, aimed at revitalizing the country’s struggling economy.
The government’s lack of action has prompted more people to join rallies and protests nationwide, including in the capital, Islamabad.
“We are overwhelmed by inflation. These bills are unbearable. If I pay the bill this month, I won’t be able to feed my three kids,” said Noorul Amin, a taxi driver.
Mohamed Karamat, a barber, received an August bill of 60,000 Pakistani rupees (approximately $200), which he cannot afford to pay.
Original from www.aljazeera.com