KARACHI: Uncoordinated digging and pickaxing remains one of the leading causes of unplanned power outages in Karachi, with K-Electric (KE) reporting 1,935 incidents in FY26 alone, says KE.
In some cases, restoration extended beyond 24 hours due to the complex nature of repairing damaged underground cables.
Out of the total, 456 incidents involved unknown responsible parties, indicating a gap in coordination before excavation work. Such damage not only disrupts electricity supply to surrounding communities and businesses but also poses serious safety hazards for workers and the public.
KE spokesperson said: “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. Verification of underground utility routes before digging can significantly reduce accidents, damage, and disruption to power supply.”
KE has consistently urged civic agencies, contractors, private developers and the public to coordinate with relevant utility providers prior to any excavation. 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 safeguard workers, residents and continuity of essential services.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026