Power Ministry Overcharges Electricity Consumers
The Federal Investigation Authority (FIA) and other authorities have concluded their investigation into electricity overbilling, holding power ministry officials accountable, according to ARY News.
Sources report that a detailed report on the overbilling issue has been submitted to the Prime Minister’s office. The report recommends strict action against the involved officials, and the Prime Minister’s Office is expected to review the findings and take action this week.
In June, over 300,000 power consumers were removed from the protected category and faced higher bills due to a new billing system introduced by DISCOs on the Ministry of Energy’s orders. Protected consumers typically receive subsidized rates or exemptions from price hikes.
On July 6, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif instructed the FIA to investigate officials from power distribution companies involved in overbilling, particularly those affecting consumers using fewer than 200 units per month.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi directed the FIA to collect data from all distribution companies that provide relief to protected consumers. He expressed concern about protected users being moved to the non-protected category and asked FIA directors to report data within three days.
The FIA has summoned officials from Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) and the Ministry of Energy, including LESCO Chief Shahid Haider, for questioning. The FIA is required to submit its final report to the Prime Minister within 24 hours.
