The power division has embarked on an unprecedented campaign to combat corruption within its ranks and address the rampant issue of power theft. This initiative, launched by the power division, specifically targets officials who have been aiding and abetting power theft among the public.
According to official statements, this operation has already resulted in action being taken against 1,914 individuals involved in corrupt practices. These include 351 officers from LESCO, 138 officers from GEPCO, 195 officers from FESCO, 219 officers from IESCO, 314 officers from MEPCO, and 299 officers from PESCO. The scale of this crackdown demonstrates the government's commitment to rooting out corruption within the power sector.
In addition to targeting corrupt officers, this operation has brought to light more than 2,199 cases of power theft across various distribution companies. FIRs (First Information Reports) have been filed against 1,955 individuals, and 21 individuals have been apprehended. These actions mark a significant step towards curbing power theft and addressing the financial challenges faced by the power sector.
The urgency of this crackdown became apparent when, on September 6, the caretaker federal government announced its intention to combat electricity theft nationwide to mitigate the ever-growing circular debt plaguing the power sector. With annual losses totaling Rs589 billion among the ten distribution companies in Pakistan, primarily due to electricity theft and unpaid bills, the government is taking proactive measures to resolve this issue.
It's important to note that the soaring power bills have triggered widespread protests across the country, from Karachi to Khyber. Demonstrators have demanded an end to free electricity for the elite and relief from the burdensome bills that often exceed their salaries. This crackdown not only addresses the financial issues within the power sector but also aims to bring much-needed relief to the common citizens who have been bearing the brunt of the power crisis.