Ongoing and unannounced power outages in Karachi have started affecting public transportation, with the city’s electric bus network facing operational challenges due to a lack of electricity at key facilities.
According to officials from the Peoples Bus Service, electricity supply to the Mehran Depot has remained unavailable for the past three days. The disruption has created difficulties in charging vehicles, forcing authorities to temporarily replace electric buses with hybrid buses on certain routes.
The electric bus service currently operates on several important routes across the city. EV1 connects Malir Cantt with Sea View, while EV3 runs between Malir Cantt and Numaish. The R1 Pink Bus route provides service from Khokhrapar to Dockyard. All three routes are linked to the Mehran Depot, making the facility crucial for the smooth functioning of the electric bus system.
Transport officials said operations are continuing through temporary arrangements, but warned that services could face suspension if power is not restored soon. They stressed that uninterrupted electricity is essential to keep the electric bus fleet running efficiently.
Meanwhile, Karachi residents continue to struggle with prolonged load shedding in various parts of the city. Reports suggest that some neighborhoods are experiencing power outages lasting more than 12 hours a day, causing significant inconvenience for households and businesses.
Areas affected by the outages include Orangi Town, Korangi, Lyari, Mauripur, Qayyumabad, Malir, Manghopir, Keamari, Surjani Town, Lines Area, and New Karachi. Residents of Soldier Bazaar, Hawksbay Road, Gulshan-e-Maymar, and Landhi have also complained about frequent and lengthy power interruptions.
The worsening situation has triggered protests in several localities. In Orangi Town, residents staged demonstrations against extended and unscheduled load shedding. Some citizens claimed that electricity had remained unavailable for two to three consecutive days in parts of Orangi and Baldia Town, urging authorities to take immediate action.
However, K-Electric has rejected reports of outages lasting more than 10 hours. The power utility stated that interruptions in certain areas are linked to low bill recovery and non-payment issues.
As Karachi continues to face electricity shortages, concerns are growing over the future of the electric bus service and the daily hardships being faced by residents across the city.
Also Read: K Electric Complaints and the Real Stories of Karachi Streets
