On Wednesday, the temporary government revealed a series of actions aimed at curbing electricity theft nationwide. This move is part of an effort to reduce the escalating debt burden within the power sector, a key driver of rising electricity tariffs.
These developments come amidst widespread protests across the country over inflated electricity bills. Relevant authorities have struggled to provide immediate relief due to stringent conditions set by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a short-term $3 billion bailout package.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Caretaker Energy Minister Mohammad Ali, accompanied by Interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi, outlined the measures being implemented to combat power theft and enhance the collection of electricity dues.
"We are currently crafting the Electricity Theft Act, which will establish an enforcement infrastructure and set up special courts to prosecute and penalize those involved in theft," stated the energy minister. He added that this act will be presented in the next two to three weeks and passed through a presidential ordinance. "Our goal is to swiftly eliminate or reduce power theft amounting to Rs589 billion," he remarked.
In line with the directives of Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, the energy minister revealed that authorities are launching a crackdown against electricity theft. He emphasized that power consumers should not have to bear the burden of those who steal electricity, and a reduction in electricity prices can only be achieved through the eradication of power theft.
Ali further explained that actions against power thieves will be based on available data. Additionally, he disclosed that a list of officers from power distribution companies involved in power theft has been compiled, and steps will be taken against them. This list has been shared with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for their removal.
On a separate note, Caretaker PM Kakar issued a directive on Monday for immediate action against individuals engaged in power theft. He urged relevant authorities to provide daily reports on this matter and emphasized the need for swift measures against defaulters, with no leniency towards power thieves and defaulting parties.
During a meeting chaired by the prime minister, detailed briefings on energy sector issues, including total installed capacity, actual generation, and overall energy supply during various seasons, were also presented.
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