The cost of continued heavy loadshedding is not only in political terms evident from violent street protests in different parts of the country but also in economic terms with industry unable to operate at capacity compelled to raise price of its products as well as lay off workers. In effect, the energy crisis accounts for a growth rate well below potential, high inflation rate and rising unemployment.
The first energy conference convened by Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf ended on a note of discord, with the ministers blaming each other for poor response to the energy crisis. This blame-game must stop. The government is required to take some concrete steps towards addressing this crisis.