ISLAMABAD – The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has imposed a hefty fine of Rs140 million on three major government-owned electricity distribution companies.
The companies include Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO), Quetta Electric Supply Company (QESCO), and Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO).
The penalties were announced as a result of the companies’ underperformance during the 2023-24 period.
NEPRA’s decision came after it found several instances of inefficiency, including over-billing, inaccurate reporting, and failure to improve revenue collection. These issues have been cited as major factors in the fine, highlighting the ongoing concerns regarding operational and financial mismanagement within the distribution sector.
As part of the regulatory action, NEPRA has directed the companies to deposit the fines within 15 days. Failure to comply with the deadline could result in further action.
Eearlier, NEPRA also penalized GEPCO with a fine of Rs10 million. This penalty specifically pertains to the company’s failure to implement adequate safety measures to prevent electrical hazards, particularly measures for preventing electrical accidents involving current-related risks.
GEPCO’s response to a show-cause notice was deemed unsatisfactory, prompting the fine. The company was given a 15-day deadline to deposit the fine into NEPRA’s account.
Furthermore, NEPRA’s directive highlighted GEPCO’s failure to fully earth 100% of poles within its jurisdiction, a safety measure critical for preventing electrical shocks. GEPCO has now been instructed to complete the earthing of remaining steel structures within the next three months.
