ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday issued strict directives to combat corruption within the power sector, particularly targeting dishonest practices in distribution companies (Discos). During a high-level meeting to review the power ministry’s performance, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to curbing electricity theft, reducing line losses, and enhancing the power distribution system nationwide.
Highlighting recent efforts to bolster transparency, PM Shehbaz noted the appointment of new board chairpersons and members in five distribution companies through a transparent selection process. He expressed optimism that these changes would lead to significant improvements in the performance of Discos.
The Prime Minister instructed the power minister and secretary to work closely with provincial governments to implement measures aimed at preventing electricity theft and improving Discos’ efficiency. Emphasizing a unified strategy, he called for a “whole of the government” approach to resist power theft across the country.
Additionally, PM Shehbaz directed provincial governments to ensure that police personnel and tehsildars are available in sufficient numbers to support Discos’ operations.
These directives come shortly after PML-N President Nawaz Sharif announced a Rs. 14 per unit reduction in electricity bills for consumers using 200-500 units in Punjab for two months.
The Prime Minister also emphasized the need for strict action against corrupt elements within Discos and called for an effective and result-oriented kutchehri system to address public complaints.
In addressing energy sustainability, PM Shehbaz urged the immediate convening of a steering committee meeting to expedite the transition of agricultural tube-wells in Balochistan to solar energy. The meeting was informed that standard operating procedures for this transition have been established and that a package is being prepared to recognize officers demonstrating exceptional performance.
Story by Syed Irfan Raza
