Hunza, February 2026 — Following the privatization of the power department in Hunza, residents are facing several serious challenges. The department has been taken over by NPAK, a subsidiary of IPS and AKDN, which assumed full service charges starting January 2026.
According to local residents, there has been no noticeable improvement in service quality, nor any significant increase in power supply. However, electricity bills have sharply increased, leading to widespread public concern.
Sudden Change in Per Unit Rates
Residents report that just a day earlier, NPAK issued electricity bills calculated at PKR 8 per unit. Following strong public backlash and criticism, the company reportedly redistributed revised bills the next day — charging some consumers PKR 6 per unit and others PKR 4 per unit.
Citizens are questioning the fairness of this practice:
“How can different households in the same neighborhood be charged different per-unit rates?”
Residents describe the situation as not only unfair but also confusing and anxiety-inducing for the public.
Billing Without Proper Meter Installation
Although new wires, transformers, and grid infrastructure have been installed in certain areas, much work remains incomplete. While some NPAK meters have been installed, the majority of households are still without meters.
Despite this, many households are being charged based on average consumption or what residents claim are “fake previous and current readings.” Several consumers report receiving bills exceeding PKR 1,200, despite experiencing prolonged outages.
One sarcastic public remark circulating among residents states:
“Thank you NPAK Energy Limited for the five minutes of electricity today after 12 days. We also acknowledge receipt of electricity bills — most above 1200 — with questionable readings.”
Residents insist that until full meter installation is completed, consumers should be charged at previous rates. They demand improved service first, followed by transparent and crystal-clear billing.
Landowners’ اعتراض Over Electricity Poles
Another serious issue has emerged regarding the installation of electricity poles. Landowners in Hunza claim that NPAK installed poles on private land without obtaining permission or providing compensation.
Affected landowners have demanded either:
- Proper land compensation, or
- Relief in electricity bills
They have warned that failure to address the issue may force them to protest publicly.
Limited Bill Payment Options
Residents have also raised concerns that electricity bills can currently only be deposited at HBL or the Aliabad Thrift and Credit Society, which limits accessibility.
Citizens are demanding that other local financial institutions, such as Ganish Frugal Society, also be authorized to collect payments to facilitate public convenience.
Major Power Upgrade Launched in Hunza
Meanwhile, in a separate development, NPAK has announced a major power upgrade initiative in Aliabad, Hunza, aimed at strengthening the region’s electricity supply.
According to officials, the project focuses on:
- Enhancing reliability
- Minimizing technical losses
- Stabilizing voltage levels
- Ensuring smoother and more consistent power delivery
Authorities state that the upgraded transmission system will support households, tourism, small industries, and local businesses, contributing to broader economic growth and infrastructure development in Hunza.
While some residents have welcomed the infrastructure upgrades as a positive step toward modernization, many argue that billing transparency and service consistency must accompany such improvements.
Public Reaction
Consumers across Hunza — including residents of Gojal — have expressed strong dissatisfaction and protest. Community representatives say they are prepared to formally raise the issue with relevant authorities if their concerns are not addressed.
The people of Hunza are demanding:
- Uniform and transparent per-unit rates
- Immediate completion of meter installations
- Fair and accountable billing practices
- Compensation for land used without consent
- Expanded bill payment options
- Service improvements before rate increases
Until these concerns are resolved, public frustration continues to grow.