KE blames SSGC for expensive electricity

KARACHI: K-Electric has shifted blame and said that the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) is responsible for expensive electricity being generated by the power utility.

The KE made the argument at a hearing at the Sindh High Court (SHC) which was hearing a case related to a payment dispute between the two entities and a reduction in gas supply from SSGC to KE.

The lawyer of KE — the sole power utility of the city — said that due to a shortfall in gas supply, the company is unable to generate the required amount of power.

Barrister Ayan Memon said instead of providing natural gas, SSGC is providing RLNG, which costs eight times more, resulting in expensive electricity.

The lawyer added that MD SSGC Imran Maniar "should be charged with contempt of court".

In response, the SSCG's lawyer said that Malik is currently abroad. The court then told the gas company's representative that their MD should submit a written response.

The SHC also warned the SSGC lawyer that in case the MD fails to submit a written response, then the court will summon him personally.

After hearing the arguments, the court issued a notice to MD SSGC and sought a response from him on September 8.