Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif leads anti-corruption drive

The federal government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has initiated a significant move to tackle corruption within power distribution companies. By appointing officers from the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and other intelligence agencies, the government aims to root out corrupt practices that have long plagued the sector.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's directive to the Power Division to assign a deputy director-level FIA officer to electric supply companies on a permanent basis marks a crucial step in this anti-corruption drive. This officer will be tasked with building cases against individuals involved in corrupt activities, particularly focusing on removing politically appointed directors from these companies. Additionally, an additional director general will provide oversight and coordination at the headquarters level to ensure effective monitoring.

The decision to combat corruption in power distribution companies comes in response to the alarming levels of electricity theft across the country, which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has identified as unsustainable in the current economic climate. A recent anti-electricity theft campaign led by the Power Division resulted in the recovery of Rs57 billion and the apprehension of thousands of individuals engaged in electricity theft in various provinces.

Recognizing the urgent need for a sustainable strategy to upgrade transmission infrastructure, reduce line losses, and deter electricity theft, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for a collaborative effort involving provincial chief secretaries and inspectors general. The government's plan also emphasizes the deployment of technology to prevent future incidents of electricity theft.

In his directive, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the importance of holding accountable any officials found complicit in electricity theft, urging swift disciplinary actions against them. The government's primary focus is on establishing a resilient system that not only recovers stolen amounts but also prevents the recurrence of such incidents in the future.

The federal government's proactive stance against corruption in power distribution companies reflects a commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the energy sector. By targeting corrupt practices and implementing stringent measures to combat electricity theft, the government aims to create a more efficient and reliable power distribution system for the benefit of all citizens.