Amid rising inflation and relentless hikes in power tariffs, many Pakistanis are comparing their electricity costs with those in other South Asian nations like India, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
The PML-N led government, which came into power promising free electricity, has instead implemented substantial price increases, hitting domestic consumers hard.
In Pakistan, the latest electricity rate for domestic users has surged to over Rs 65 per unit, inclusive of various taxes and adjustments.
This steep rise has placed an immense financial strain on low-income households, making it difficult for them to afford their electricity bills.
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In stark contrast, electricity prices in neighboring countries are significantly lower.
In Afghanistan, the cost stands at 2.5 Afghanis (approximately Rs 3.92) per unit for up to 200 units.
Bangladesh charges Tk 7.20 (approximately Rs 17.07) per unit for the same consumption level.
Meanwhile, in India, the rate is Rs 6.29 per unit.
Electricity costs in Pakistan:
The situation in Pakistan is markedly different, with electricity rates escalating sharply.
The new base tariff is set at Rs 48.84 per unit, which rises to Rs 57.63 per unit after sales tax.
Including all adjustments and additional taxes, the maximum tariff now exceeds Rs 65 per unit, putting a significant burden on ordinary citizens.
For consumers using 1 to 100 units, the proposed monthly tariff is Rs 23.59 per unit.
Those consuming between 101 and 200 units will pay Rs 30.07 per unit.
The rate for users consuming 201 to 300 units will rise to Rs 34.26 per unit, and those using between 301 and 400 units will face a tariff of Rs 39.15 per unit.
Consumers using 401 to 500 units will be charged the highest rate at Rs 41.36 per unit.
These increases, recently approved by the federal cabinet, affect residential consumers using between 100 and 500 units per month, exacerbating the financial difficulties for many Pakistani households.
