Mosques in Pakistan are facing closures due to unpaid hefty electricity bills, exacerbated by recent increases in power rates, which have also burdened ordinary citizens. Communities have been unable to cover these costs, resulting in the locking of some religious facilities.
A viral video on social media depicts a mosque caretaker closing the mosque because the congregation could not afford the electricity bill. The caretaker explains the community’s dire financial straits, noting that the mosque’s outstanding bill was over 66,000 PKR. Residents living near the mosque are similarly struggling with their household bills.
One resident shared his financial distress: “My electricity bill is 20,000 PKR, equal to my monthly salary. Paying this bill means we won’t have money left for food or other necessities.”
Read: Pakistan Faces Potential Electricity Tariff Hike of Rs3.41 Per Unit
Additionally, well-known Pakistani actor Rashid Mahmood voiced his frustration about the escalating electricity bill, criticizing government officials for their perceived negligence. “The rulers take everything abroad, leaving us with nothing. My electricity bill this month is 45,000 PKR. If you can’t provide for us, are you also taking away our right to live? Oh Allah, I can’t bear this life anymore!” expressed Mahmood, highlighting the extreme despair felt by many due to these financial pressures.
