Nepra fines Rs50mn to K-Electric over electrocution deaths

KARACHI (92 News) – The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority’s (Nepra) has fined Rs50 million to K-Electric over electrocution deaths in Karachi. In its decision by the Nepra, the K-Electric was declared responsible for electrocution deaths. The Nepra directed the K-Electric to pay the compensation of victims’ family, adding that the power utility to ensure fully secured power distribution system by April 2020. The power regulator has also directed the utility providing electricity to Karachi to ensure third party evaluation of its power distribution system. It is pertinent to mention here that the scores of people died by electrocution during rains in Karachi in months of July and August this year. The power supply also suspended to several areas of the metropolis for long hours, NEPRA said in a statement. During the inquiry conducted in-house, NEPRA concluded that 19 of the 35 deaths were indeed caused by the power utility responsible for lighting up the biggest city of Pakistan. On the other hand, the K-Electric spokesperson mentioned that they are reviewing the decision with details which announced currently by the Nepra. “The report should include external matters including illegal TV cables and ‘hook’ (the illegal direct wire connection on main electricity cable).” The spokesman also said that the water collected around the electricity installed equipments also external factor which cause the sorrow incident. He said that the K-Electric will request Nepra to again review its decision. “Reviewing its network and they will take steps to ensure fully secured power distribution system.”