WE all are well aware of the energy crisis, as well as of the pitiable loadshedding scenario, be it the causes or adverse effects of it. But this is to only show one side of the coin.

Regularly, I notice that streetlights remain on for many hours even after the sun has risen. I wonder if this is a case of over-efficiency or sheer carelessness.

Blaming the government to be responsible for all the problems is not right. Electricity is also being wasted and misused at homes, institutions, workplaces, malls, restaurants, etc.

In institutions and workplaces, airconditioners, heavy-watt lights, fans, computers, etc., are needlessly left on consuming electricity until the employees leave office in the evening. No one would even bother to turn off extra lights or the airconditioner even when the room temperature is pleasant, and to turn their computers off during lunch hour at offices or classrooms/labs in institutions. This is exploitation.

On an average, a middle or upper middle class family having five to six members own two televisions at home, two refrigerators and/or a separate fridge and freezer, two airconditioners that are used gratuitously and several other home appliances, including those used in the kitchen.

Isn’t using two electrical items instead of one sheer wastage of electricity? There is a need to keep a check on the exploitation of electricity at the government level. On the other hand, I request every citizen to realise how we are using and misusing such a precious commodity.

We have grown up hearing the government’s plans and vows to overcome all electricity problems. However, we all know that nothing is going to change. Thus, the best thing for us to do is to contribute in minimising its wastage.

SIDRA AIMAN Karachi