Skyrocketing power bills draw protests near Pakistan’s capital
![](https://ktvz.b-cdn.net/2023/03/osKcX94i-News-BG-NC21-logo-1200x675-1.jpg)
Associated Press
ISLAMABAD (AP) — Protests over skyrocketing power bills have shut down a major road into Pakistan’s capital as some 3,000 supporters of a major Islamist party continue a sit-in despite pouring monsoon rains. The protesters are demanding that the government withdraw taxes on electricity to offset price hikes. They have occupied a road in the garrison city of Rawalpindi since Friday. The government raised power prices 26% during the last fiscal year, before tacking on another 20% increase on July 13. In Pakistan’s southwest, meanwhile, thousands protested against police violence, an internet shutdown and highway closures. At least two people, including a soldier, were killed in the clashes.