Federal Minister for Power, Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, has issued instructions for immediate and stringent measures to combat the ongoing issue of electricity theft across Pakistan, revealed a press statement released on Monday. Emphasising the critical need to eradicate this illegal practice, Leghari set an urgent deadline of April 23 for the complete elimination of all forms of electricity theft from the country’s power grid.
In a letter, the minister tasked all power distribution companies (Discos) chairmen and CEOs with mobilising their resources effectively, in order to effectively end electricity theft. Additionally, he instructed superintendent engineers, executive engineers, sub-divisional officers, and relevant field staff to issue certificates verifying the absence of theft in their respective operational areas to ensure a robust verification process.
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Under the minister’s guidance, rigorous efforts are underway to identify and neutralise every avenue used for electricity theft. Any discrepancies or contradictory evidence will be met with swift legal and disciplinary actions against responsible departmental personnel.
Recognising the need for stronger deterrents, Leghari has directed amendments to existing laws to ensure severe penalties for employees found complicit in electricity theft.
The government’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against electricity theft underscores its unwavering dedication to ensuring a fair and transparent power distribution system. Leghari has reiterated that performance evaluations will be conducted regularly to maintain a vigilant stance against any lapses or irregularities.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 9th, 2024.
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