ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly was informed on Wednesday that federal, provincial, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) governments collectively owe over Rs256.34 billion to power distribution companies (DISCOs) as of June 2024.
Responding to a question from MNA Jam Abdul Karim Bijar during the Question-Hour, the Power Division disclosed the DISCO-wise breakdown of arrears. The federal government owes Rs47.811 billion, provincial governments Rs151.763 billion, and the AJK government Rs56.71 billion.
The largest receivables from federal departments include Rs14.137 billion by IESCO and Rs6.673 billion by LESCO. For provincial government departments, QESCO is owed Rs38.299 billion, while SEPCO and PESCO are owed Rs33.52 billion and Rs23.988 billion, respectively. AJK government arrears are dominated by Rs45.352 billion owed to IESCO.
Despite arrears, DISCOs struggle to disconnect these departments due to their sensitive nature. Prime Minister-directed payments are underway, with monthly reconciliations and regular meetings to expedite recovery.
Story by Asim Yasin
