Key Takeaways
- K-Electric reports 1,935 unplanned outages in FY26 due to uncoordinated digging.
- 456 incidents involved unknown responsible parties, highlighting a lack of coordination.
- KE urges civic agencies and contractors to coordinate with utility providers before excavation.
K-Electric (KE) has reported 1,935 unplanned outages in fiscal year 2026, primarily due to uncoordinated digging and the use of pickaxes, according to a statement from the company.
The outages, which extended beyond 24 hours in some cases, have disrupted electricity supply to surrounding communities and businesses, posing serious safety hazards.
Out of the total incidents, 456 involved unknown responsible parties, indicating a significant gap in coordination before excavation work.
KE spokesperson highlighted the importance of established protocols to facilitate coordination among utilities and civic agencies, emphasizing that outages caused by damage to underground cables are more complex and require specialized teams.
Verification of underground utility routes before any excavation can significantly reduce accidents, damage, and disruption to power supply, according to KE.
In a dense urban environment like Karachi, where power, water, gas, and telecom networks run beneath roads and public spaces, adherence to these protocols is critical to safeguarding workers, residents, and the continuity of essential services.
KE has consistently urged civic agencies, contractors, private developers, and the public to coordinate with relevant utility providers prior to any excavation.
The company stresses the need for better coordination to prevent future outages and ensure the safety and reliability of the power supply in Karachi.
There are established protocols to facilitate coordination among utilities and civic agencies. Outages caused by damage to underground cables are more complex, require specialized teams, and have longer resolution times.
KE spokesperson, KE spokesperson
