NEPRA Approves Bill to Prosecute Overbilling Officials

The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has approved a bill that could result in electricity company officials facing up to three years in jail for overbilling. This development comes after the National Assembly passed legislation to address overbilling practices in Power Distribution Companies (DISCOs). Federal Minister for Energy, Awais Ahmad Leghari, highlighted that this step fulfills a commitment made through amendments to the NEPRA Act, enabling the accountability of officials found guilty of overbilling or issuing incorrect bills.

Under the new regulations, NEPRA will now spearhead the prosecution of cases related to overbilling, shifting this responsibility from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). It has been reported that officials from DISCOs had previously manipulated regulations to protect themselves from FIA scrutiny. Despite this change, the FIA will continue to play a role in identifying instances of overbilling, ensuring that DISCOs officials are no longer shielded from potential prosecution.

In conclusion, the recent approval of the bill by NEPRA marks a significant step towards combating overbilling practices in the electricity sector. By holding officials accountable and streamlining the prosecution process, the government aims to enhance transparency and fairness within the industry, ultimately benefiting consumers and promoting a more efficient electricity distribution system.