Report — 10 October 2024

Exorbitant electricity bills push Faisalabad’s power-loom industry into crisis

Summary

Sector coverage described a severe crisis in Faisalabad’s weaving base, attributing shutdowns and output losses to exorbitant electricity bills. Owners flagged arrears accumulation and bank exposure, with many considering asset sales or relocation.

Knock-on effects

Sustained billing shocks jeopardize payrolls, social-security contributions, and workplace safety budgets, risking non-compliance penalties and long-term capacity erosion.

Implications for APPLA
  • Launch a billing-errors audit drive; escalate systemic anomalies to DISCOs and regulator.
  • Train members on load-profile optimization (shifts, ToU discipline) and equipment retrofits.