By Ata Ur Rahmen 
Hydro Union Warns Government Over WAPDA Privatization Plan
Hyderabad (October 9, 2025) — The All Pakistan WAPDA Hydro Electric Workers Union has issued a clear warning to the federal government, threatening a nationwide power shutdown if the controversial WAPDA privatization policy is implemented. Union leaders said privatizing power distribution companies like HESCO would endanger both workers’ rights and the country’s energy stability.
Speaking at a large rally held in Hyderabad, the union’s central chairman, Abdul Latif Nizamani, criticized the government’s ongoing privatization agenda, calling it a direct attack on the livelihoods of thousands of WAPDA employees. “If the government goes ahead with the WAPDA privatization, we will be forced to shut down electricity across Pakistan,” he warned.
Massive Rally Held Against Privatization Policy
The rally, organized under the banner of the All Pakistan WAPDA Hydro Electric Workers Union, drew hundreds of workers and representatives from various electricity distribution companies. Demonstrators carried placards and chanted slogans rejecting the WAPDA privatization plan.
Addressing the gathering, Abdul Latif Nizamani said, “The government must withdraw this decision. Privatization will only increase the financial burden on consumers and deprive workers of their rights.”
He added that privatization had already failed in other sectors, leading to higher costs and job insecurity. “We will not allow the government to sell national assets that belong to the people of Pakistan,” he said, receiving loud applause from the crowd.
Union’s Demands: Stop Privatization, Lift Hiring Ban
Union leaders demanded that the government immediately stop all efforts related to WAPDA privatization. They called for lifting the ban on new recruitments and promotions within WAPDA, noting that many employees have been waiting for years for their career advancements.
“The government should focus on improving management and upgrading outdated infrastructure rather than selling public institutions,” Nizamani emphasized. He further demanded that the authorities engage in dialogue with union representatives to find practical solutions for the power sector instead of forcing privatization.
Workers Warn of Nationwide Blackout
The Hydro Union’s leadership made it clear that any attempt to privatize HESCO or other distribution companies would lead to strong resistance. “If WAPDA privatization continues, we will not hesitate to take extreme action — including a nationwide power shutdown,” said Nizamani.
Union members also appealed to the public for support, saying that privatization would eventually lead to higher electricity tariffs and reduced service quality. They urged citizens to stand with WAPDA workers in their fight to protect national interests.
Government’s Response Awaited
So far, there has been no official response from the federal government regarding the Hydro Union’s threat. However, sources within the Ministry of Energy indicated that discussions on privatization are ongoing under the government’s economic reform plan.
Energy experts believe that while privatization could improve efficiency, it also carries risks if not implemented transparently. Many argue that reforms should focus on reducing line losses, improving recovery rates, and upgrading the power infrastructure before considering privatization.
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