ISLAMABAD: The country’s major steel producers have raised serious reservations against stark discrepancy faced by Karachi-based industries in accessing the Government’s Incremental Units Consumption Subsidy (GIUCS).
the Government’s Incremental Units Consumption Subsidy (GIUCS), was introduced in July 2021, to alleviate post-COVID economic strains and remained operational till Oct 2023. The industry across the country utilized, but Karachi industries remained deprived of this ‘benefit’ due to continued legal dispute between K-Electric and the Power Ministry.
The discrepancy in distributing this subsidy raises alarming doubts about the fairness and commitment of state authorities in delivering impartial support. Despite reassurances from entities such as the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), the Power Division, and the Minister of Energy, Karachi industries are yet to receive the promised relief. This delay has plunged these businesses into a state of financial uncertainty, exacerbating their existing challenges.
While the government has swiftly extended support to the Utility Company of Karachi through long-awaited agreements, a similar urgency is noticeably lacking for industrial units.
The Pakistan Association of Large Steel Producers (PALSP), the representative body of large steel producers, has urgently appealed to the Prime Minister and relevant ministries through a recent letter. PALSP seeks the Prime Minister’s intervention to address this pressing issue and safeguard Karachi’s industries.
The evident bias against Karachi industries in implementing the Incremental Units Consumption Package casts doubts on principles of fairness, equity, and the government’s dedication to fostering nationwide industrial growth.
Such discriminatory actions erode business trust and hinder their ability to flourish. The ongoing plight faced by Karachi-based industries, compounded by the non-disbursement of this subsidy, adds to the multifaceted challenges besieging the industry.
