Anti-power theft measures lead to Rs46 billion in recoveries

The government’s unyielding efforts against power theft have produced significant results, surpassing Rs46 billion in recoveries, as announced by Rashid Langrial, Secretary Power Division, Government of Pakistan, in a statement on X (formerly Twitter).

It’s noteworthy that the anti-power theft campaign commenced on September 7, and the reported outcomes cover the period up to October 31.

Langrial highlighted the government’s commitment, stating that they have undertaken unprecedented measures, including reshuffling, suspending, prosecuting, and even arresting their own staff.

Approximately 470 individuals per day have been detained, marking a substantial increase in the rate of apprehension.

The Secretary highlighted the government’s determination to eliminate external influences, thanks to the unwavering support of the Prime Minister, the Minister-in-Charge, and other segments of state power.

While revealing the results for the initial two months (53 days), Langrial underscored the importance of placing the figures in context.

The estimated annual losses across the national grid for the current year stand at Rs589 billion. Notably, around Rs199 billion of these losses are attributed to ex-FATA, Baluchistan tube wells, and AJK.

However, Langrial clarified that these specific areas are not the primary focus of the campaign due to their unique circumstances. AJK, for instance, handles its own bills but disputes payments on contractual grounds.

Ex-FATA, exempted from metres due to a policy of appeasement post-integration, and Baluchistan tube wells face enforcement challenges, among other factors.

Langrial disclosed that efforts are concentrated on the remaining problem space of Rs390 billion, of which Rs46 billion has been recovered in 53 days, averaging Rs867 million per day.
He cautiously acknowledged that maintaining

the same level of state support and field effort is crucial for resolving 80 per cent of the problem space, albeit with some uncertainty.