IN a significant stride towards combating power theft, Secretary Power Division Rashid Langrial said Rs 46 billion has been recovered from power pilferers in about two months. Langrial’s revelation on social media provides a glimpse into the magnitude of the challenge faced by the power sector, with estimated annual losses reaching a staggering Rs 589 billion. Out of this, Rs 199 billion is attributed to losses from ex-Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FTA), Balochistan tube-wells and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The remaining Rs 390 billion, however, remains a formidable problem space that demands continued attention and rigorous efforts.
It is heartening to note that in a mere 53 days, the campaign has managed to recover a substantial amount, averaging an impressive PKR 867 million per day. This underscores the potential impact of sustained state support and dedicated field efforts. The success of the anti-power theft campaign should not be a momentary triumph but a catalyst for more comprehensive and vigorous action. The campaign must extend its reach beyond individual offenders to encompass private and public sector departments. This holistic approach is crucial for addressing the systemic challenges contributing to power losses. Moreover, as the spectre of power circular debt continues to haunt our nation, it is imperative to recognize that administrative measures alone may not suffice. Structural reforms are also needed to eradicate the root causes of power theft and bring about lasting change. The campaign should serve as a stepping stone towards broader reforms in the power sector, focusing on improving transmission infrastructure, enhancing monitoring mechanisms and ensuring transparent billing processes. The recovery of funds from power pilferers is a positive sign, but it should also be viewed as an opportunity to strengthen the power sector’s foundation. Sustainable solutions require a multi-dimensional approach that combines punitive measures for wrongdoers with proactive reforms aimed at fortifying the sector against future challenges. The focus must be on bringing cheap electricity into the system by exploiting the potential of renewable energy. This is the only way we can provide cheap electricity to the domestic and commercial consumers.
