Govt aims to ‘reduce power theft of Rs589 billion at the earliest’

The caretaker government unveiled a set of measures to tackle power theft nationwide, aiming to reduce the growing circular debt issue in the power sector, which is causing electricity prices to soar. 

This announcement comes amid widespread protests against high electricity bills, hindered by strict conditions from the International Monetary Fund.

During a press conference, Caretaker Energy Minister Mohammad Ali, alongside Interim Information Minister Murtaza Solangi, outlined their plan. 

According to Geo News, Ali said that the government is working on a new law, the electricity theft act, to create enforcement mechanisms and special courts for those involved in theft. This law will be introduced within the next two to three weeks.

“We are aiming to stop or reduce power theft of Rs589 billion at the earliest,” the minister said.

In line with Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar’s instructions, the Energy Minister announced a crackdown on power theft, emphasising that consumers shouldn’t pay for theft, and lower electricity prices depend on solving this issue. Ali assured that authorities would act based on available data.

Additionally, the minister revealed a list of power distribution company officers involved in power theft and measures to take action against them. This list was sent to the Election Commission of Pakistan for possible removal.

In another meeting, Caretaker PM Kakar stressed the urgency of dealing with power theft, urging regular progress reports. He emphasised zero leniency toward power thieves and defaulters.

During the meeting, detailed briefings covered the energy sector’s challenges, including total installed capacity, actual generation, and overall energy supply across different seasons.