The unbearable heaviness of bills

Around a dozen different taxes are imposed on consumers by the federal and provincial governments through K-Electric and SSGC bills, which have now surpassed the payment capacity of many already struggling consumers. Even before they receive their bills, many experience anxiety, and when they finally see the amounts, they feel an overwhelming sense of financial strain. To cope with these charges, low- and middle-income households are forced to cut back on essential expenses each month. Successive governments have taken trillions of rupees in foreign loans, only to add to the public’s misery rather than improve their lives. The government must provide transparency by sharing details of how these massive loans are spent. To cover loan repayments with high interest rates, the people are being unfairly made to bear the brunt. Why? The current and former ruling parties are entirely responsible for the present economic crisis and owe the public accountability. The government must immediately reduce its extravagant expenditures by at least 50 per cent and instill a culture of austerity throughout its ranks. Political elites and democracy champions, whether in power or opposition, should also contribute a portion of their considerable wealth to the national economy.

Hasan Afzaal

Karachi