Power failure sparks riots in Karachi

Karachi: Violence and rioting broke out at a number of places in Karachi due to the prolonged electricity failure, which hurt the people more because of the soaring temperatures.

Bands of angry people started violent protests overnight simultaneously at a number of neighbourhoods.

The protests included burning tyres, blocking traffic and attacking the offices and complaint centres of the Karachi Electric Supply Corporation (KESC).

The Muttahida Qaumi Movement, a key partner in the ruling government, warned the authorities that if the electricity supply situation is not improved, it would create further law and order problems.

Police said that protesters attacked the complaint centre at PIB Colony and set it ablaze. Similar attacks were carried out at a number of places including Liaqatabad, Nazimbabad, Gulistan-e-Johar, Landhi, Korangi and Azizabad.

Police continued to play hide-and-seek with protesters till past midnight and early hours of the morning, but no arrests were reported.

"There is no electricity in my house for more than eight hours," said Mustafa Hussain, a resident of Liaqatabad.

"What else should one do if not throw stones and set their office on fire."

Rashida Erum, a housewife in Gulshan-e-Iqbal, complained that no one was answering her telephone calls at KESC complaint centre.

"Nobody is listening. It seems that the organisation has collapsed. People are angry. They are justified in attacking their offices."