Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s remarks on unacceptable practice of over-billing by electricity distribution companies (Discos) are indeed a welcome stance. His call for strict action against officers involved in such practices highlights government’s awareness over the issue, yet these words must be matched with concrete action to ensure that public receives real benefit.
The installation of smart meters, as directed by the PM, is a positive step toward ensuring transparency and curbing over-billing. However, it is essential that this initiative be implemented without any delay. Additionally, action should not only focus on over-billing but also target the staff of Discos who may be complicit in power theft. Many employees, in collusion with corrupt individuals, contribute to widespread issue of electricity pilferage, which worsens financial burden on consumers. It is crucial that government takes decisive action and communicates these efforts clearly to the public. Transparency regarding the steps being taken will reassure the public that genuine progress is being made to address both over-billing and electricity theft. Moreover, the process of reforms initiated by government must proceed at a much faster pace. The energy sector cannot achieve viability and long-term sustainability without addressing deeper structural issues such as circular debt, ensuring better governance and implementing financial discipline within the power sector.
