ISLAMABAD: At least 11 people have died from electrocution during the July monsoon rains across Pakistan, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) disclosed on Thursday.
The revelation came during a NEPRA hearing in Islamabad on a petition seeking a Rs1.69 per unit cut in electricity prices.
NEPRA Member Technical Rafique Ahmed Shaikh expressed serious concern over the deaths, noting that the highest number of incidents occurred in July.
He pointed out that six of the victims were from areas under the Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO).
“Where is the IESCO CEO? How did these deaths occur in its system? What safety measures were in place?” Shaikh questioned during the session. He urged the power division to take urgent notice of the matter.
He added that although NEPRA can impose fines on power distribution companies, these firms often secure stay orders to avoid paying penalties.
In Karachi, police at Shah Faisal Colony registered a case against K-Electric Chief Executive Officer Syed Moonis Abdullah Alvi and other officials after two brothers were electrocuted during heavy rains.
The victims, Israr Khan and his younger brother Siraj Khan, reportedly came into contact with a live underground K-Electric wire outside their home. Floodwater had submerged the road, and both lost their lives instantly.
Their family has demanded strict legal action, holding K-Electric authorities responsible for negligence.