Karachi: K-Electric has announced that load shedding will not be carried out in areas where the “feels like” temperature reaches 45 degrees Celsius amid the ongoing heatwave.
According to K-Electric’s Head of Distribution Operations, Khurram Abdullah, the power utility has suspended all maintenance shutdowns due to the extreme weather conditions. The move aims to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during periods of intense heat, when demand for power—especially for cooling—significantly increases.
He further stated that if the perceived temperature in any locality rises to 45°C, the company will avoid load shedding in that area to provide relief to residents facing harsh weather conditions.
Karachi, like many other parts of Pakistan, has been experiencing a severe heatwave, prompting authorities and utility providers to take precautionary measures. Continuous electricity supply is considered critical during such times, particularly for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and those with health conditions.
K-Electric’s decision to halt maintenance-related outages and prioritize high-temperature areas reflects an effort to manage the crisis more effectively. However, the company has not specified how long this policy will remain in place or how it will handle potential shortfalls in power supply if demand exceeds capacity.
The announcement comes as residents often express concerns over load shedding during peak summer months, when temperatures soar and electricity usage reaches its highest levels. By linking load shedding decisions to “feels like” temperatures, K-Electric appears to be adopting a more responsive approach to real-time weather conditions.
While the measure may provide temporary relief, energy experts emphasize the need for long-term solutions to address Karachi’s persistent power challenges, including infrastructure upgrades, better demand management, and increased generation capacity.
