Pakistan: Blackout in Karachi region May 29-30 /update 1

Event

The southern city of Karachi suffered a major blackout beginning late on Monday, May 29. As of Tuesday evening, power has still not been restored. Districts affected include Nazimabad, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Gulistan-e-Jauhar, Malir, Korangi, Lines Area, New Karachi, Safoora, and S.I.T.E. Protests by angry residents are possible in the Karachi region and elsewhere in the country.

Context

Violent clashes between protesters and security forces took place in the northwestern cities of Peshawar, Charsadda, and Swat on Monday, May 29, as residents complained about frequent power outages there. One protester was killed and several others were wounded as hundreds of people burned government offices and police checkpoints. Organizers stated that the protests would continue until the federal government resolves the issue. Power cuts are common in Pakistan but the northwest of the country has  been affected worse than normal recently, with near-daily power cuts lasting up to 12 hours. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had reportedly promised that power supplies would remain reliable during Ramadan (May 27-June 25), especially at dawn.

Advice

Individuals present in Pakistan are advised to avoid all demonstrations as violence may flare up without warning and to follow instructions issued by the local authorities. As a reminder, there's a high threat of terrorism, kidnapping, and sectarian violence throughout Pakistan. Remain vigilant and take appropriate security precautions.