world-economy

Pakistan's Power Crisis Spawns Gray-Market Generator Network

Karachi residents are turning to gray-market power providers as blackouts intensify across Pakistan's largest city. The disruptions stem from nearly three months of supply interruptions tied to regional instability, forcing consumers to seek alternative electricity sources. Mohammad Mazhar, a tailor in a densely populated residential district, pays monthly fees to access nearby generators when the main grid fails. At least five similar informal micro-utilities have emerged in his neighborhood alone, indicating widespread demand for independent power solutions. Outages have grown more frequent as the situation persists, with no clear timeline for restoration. These gray-market electricity providers are filling a critical gap as Pakistan's energy infrastructure remains strained.