By Khalid Khattak
The Geo News article titled “Tax collection via electricity bills surges to Rs490bn in FY25” by senior journalist Mehtab Haider is a prime example of how data can transform a news story into an insightful and engaging read.
The use of data in this article not only supports the narrative but also provides depth and context, making it a valuable learning resource for those interested in storytelling with data. Here’s how the use of data makes this article an interesting read and a learning opportunity:
Uncovering trends and patterns
The article uses data to uncover trends and patterns that might not be immediately obvious. For instance, the decline in tax collection via electricity bills is linked to a decrease in overall electricity consumption. This trend is further analyzed to reveal underlying factors such as the shift towards solar energy and reduced industrial consumption. By presenting this data, the article helps readers understand the broader context and implications of the tax collection figures.
The article serves as a learning opportunity for those interested in exploring storytelling with data. By analyzing how the reporter uses data to support the narrative, uncover trends, and add context, journalism students can gain insights into effective data storytelling techniques. This includes learning how to collect, analyze, and present data in a way that enhances the story and engages the audience.Supporting claims with evidence
Data provides evidence to support the claims made in the article. The reporter uses data from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to substantiate the claim that tax collection via electricity bills declined in the last fiscal year. This evidence-based approach adds credibility to the article and helps readers trust the information presented. For journalism students, this highlights the importance of using reliable data sources to back up their stories.
Adding context and depth
The article adds context and depth by providing detailed data on various aspects of tax collection and electricity consumption. For example, the increase in the household sector’s share of electricity consumption is explained in the context of population growth, increased use of home appliances, and stable weather-related consumption patterns. This contextual information helps readers understand the significance of the data and its broader implications.
Highlighting key findings
The reporter’s findings that low tax collection is linked to low consumption and other factors are crucial to the story. By highlighting these findings, the article draws attention to the interconnectedness of different economic indicators. This approach demonstrates how data can be used to explore relationships between different variables and uncover insights that might not be apparent at first glance.
