PM Shehbaz Sharif Cracks Down on Electricity Overcharging

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has taken a firm stance against officials found guilty of overcharging electricity consumers in Pakistan. In a recent meeting held in Islamabad, the Prime Minister highlighted the pressing need to address malpractices in the power sector. The discussion revolved around the concerning circular debt, which had escalated to Rs2,655 billion by May 2024.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a session where he instructed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to swiftly identify and suspend any officials involved in overcharging consumers. He emphasized that such actions erode public trust and will not be condoned. Furthermore, the Cabinet Committee on Energy (CCoE) gave the green light to establish a dedicated support unit for electricity distribution companies. This unit aims to boost operational efficiency, combat theft, and ensure prompt bill collection.

The newly approved support unit for DISCOs will kick off its operations, starting with the Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO), and is set to run for a two-year period. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's proactive measures are geared towards tackling the hurdles faced by the power sector and promoting equitable practices in electricity billing.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's unwavering commitment to combat overcharging in the electricity sector marks a significant step towards ensuring transparency and fairness. By cracking down on malpractices and introducing measures to enhance efficiency, the government aims to restore public confidence and streamline operations in the power industry.