Power cuts has disrupted business in Lahore

Angry demonstrators burned tires on streets in Lahore on 25 June 2009 to protest a recent increase in load shedding by the Pakistan Electric Power Company (Pepco). Protests occurred in the Dharampura, Mughalpura, Garhi Shahu and Chungi Amar Suddhoo areas. The protesters have demanded that the company stop load shedding during night hours. Pepco has stated that the load shedding is necessary due to above-average electricity demand stemming from the extremely hot weather. The Pakistani government has refused to raise power tariffs as a means of curbing demand. The frequent power outages have significantly disrupted business activities in the city.