Power Minister Muhammad Ali and Information Minister Murtaza Solangi speaking at a press conference

ISLAMABAD: In a significant move aimed at curbing electricity theft and reducing the financial burden on common citizens, the government has unveiled its plans for a comprehensive crackdown on power pilferage. Federal ministers Muhammad Ali, the Power Minister, and Murtaza Solangi, the information minister, jointly announced these measures during a press conference held in Islamabad.

The decision to tackle electricity theft head-on comes in response to mounting concerns over significant financial losses and the subsequent increase in electricity bills for law-abiding consumers. The government has expressed its commitment to address these issues, acknowledging the adverse effects on the country's power distribution companies.

Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Minister Muhammad Ali emphasized that electricity theft and non-payment of bills collectively result in annual losses of a staggering Rs589 billion. These losses, he explained, ultimately translate into higher electricity bills for responsible consumers. The government is determined to put an end to this unfair practice to help reduce electricity prices.

The Power Minister further elaborated on the disparities among Pakistan's ten distribution companies (Discos), with some regions experiencing higher levels of theft and lower bill recovery percentages than others. For instance, Discos in Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Multan, and Islamabad recorded relatively better performance with losses amounting to Rs100 billion out of a billing total of Rs3,044 billion, estimated at 3%. Conversely, Discos in Peshawar, Hyderabad, Sukkur, Quetta, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir suffered losses as high as 60%.

To address these issues effectively, the government has outlined a three-pronged strategy:

Technology-Driven Intervention: In areas with lower levels of theft, the government plans to employ technological solutions to detect and deter electricity theft.

Private Sector Involvement: In regions where losses range from 30% to 60%, the government is considering private sector partnerships to improve management and reduce theft.

Enforcement Measures: In areas with losses exceeding 60%, stringent enforcement actions will be taken to put an end to electricity theft.

In addition to these measures, the government also aims to enhance the management of Discos by reviewing their board of governors and implementing necessary changes. The government has reached out to provincial chief secretaries and police chiefs, securing their full support in implementing this comprehensive plan.

Furthermore, officials found to be aiding electricity pilferage will face consequences. A list of such officers has been compiled, and they will be reassigned and removed from field duties. The government has submitted this list to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for approval before their transfer.

In summary, the government's crackdown on electricity theft represents a significant step towards reducing financial losses, ensuring fair billing practices, and ultimately providing relief to the common citizens of Pakistan. The comprehensive approach involves a combination of technology, private sector collaboration, and stringent enforcement measures to tackle this long-standing issue.

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