IESCO Seeks Police Aid Amid Protests Over High Electricity Bills
IESCO has sought police assistance amid growing protests against high electricity bills in several areas, including Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Taxila, and AJK. The rising cost of electricity has frustrated consumers, prompting demonstrations and roadblocks as citizens demand immediate relief from surging utility costs.
These protests reflect public discontent with increasing tariffs and unexpected surcharges, forcing IESCO to request police help to maintain peace and address growing tensions.
Rawalpindi Protests
Protests erupted across Rawalpindi as residents took to the streets, blocking roads and staging sit-ins near IESCO offices. Key areas like Committee Chowk were affected, with large crowds demanding bill reductions and removal of surcharges.
The protests were joined by local traders, shopkeepers, and community leaders, who expressed concerns over business losses due to high electricity costs. Many warned of escalating protests if their demands were not addressed quickly.
Police were deployed to prevent disruptions and maintain law and order as the demonstrators grew in numbers. Despite the tension, IESCO officials met with representatives to assure them that consumer grievances were being heard.
Islamabad Protests
Similar protests took place in Islamabad, where citizens demonstrated in several areas, including Blue Area, F-7, and I-8 Markaz. The participants carried banners calling for bill reductions and relief from additional surcharges. Business owners in these areas emphasized that inflated electricity bills were severely impacting their operations, making it difficult to stay afloat.
IESCO issued a statement acknowledging the concerns of businesses and residents. The company assured consumers that discussions were underway to explore solutions, including options for easing bill payments.
Taxila Protests
In Taxila, hundreds of people protested, blocking roads near the railway bridge. The demonstrators marched through the streets and demanded immediate removal of surcharges. The protests continued for hours, causing traffic jams and disrupting daily activities.
The protesters also visited the local IESCO office, demanding answers and urgent relief. Some threatened further action if their concerns were ignored.
Protests in AJK
Protests spread to Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), where residents expressed anger over rising electricity costs. Demonstrations were reported in Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, and Neelum Valley, with participants demanding that the government lower utility charges and reduce surcharges.
Earlier, calls were made for region-wide protests to escalate the pressure on authorities. The AJK government responded by forming a task force to assess consumer grievances and develop possible solutions. However, protest leaders warned they would intensify the demonstrations if meaningful action wasn’t taken by August 31.
Growing Public Discontent
The protests highlight the widespread frustration among consumers regarding the rising cost of electricity. Many families and businesses say they are struggling to keep up with the bills, especially with the addition of unexpected charges and surcharges.
Authorities acknowledge that the protests reflect genuine concerns. Several meetings between government officials and utility companies are already in progress to explore ways to reduce costs and provide some relief to consumers.
Conclusion
The growing protests across Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Taxila, and AJK have forced IESCO to request police intervention to maintain order. Meanwhile, authorities have assured the public that efforts are being made to address grievances and reduce electricity bills. As tensions remain high, further developments are expected. For more details on managing your electricity costs, visit IESCO Online Bill.
