CEOs of DISCOs summoned

Summon triggered by consumers outcry over inflated bills, meter reading complaints

ISLAMABAD:

Taking serious notice, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) has responded to a wave of consumer complaints regarding excessive electricity billing and alleged meter reading discrepancies by summoning the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of all state-owned distribution companies next week.

A substantial number of grievances were filed by electricity consumers at Nepra’s headquarters, primarily concerning incorrect meter readings leading to inflated bills, according to a Nepra spokesperson.

In light of these serious concerns regarding overbilling, excessive unit charges, and meter reading irregularities, Nepra has taken decisive action by scheduling a meeting with the CEOs of distribution companies on September 12.

Many of the complaints revolve around consumers receiving bills without a clear representation of meter readings and incorrect meter reading dates, Nepra officials explained. For the past month, electricity consumers across Pakistan have been voicing their dissatisfaction with inflated bills. The government has attempted to address these concerns by announcing various measures, but its capacity to provide relief is limited.

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While the government initially sought to offer an instalment plan to consumers using up to 400 units of electricity, the IMF has only granted approval for relief to those using up to 200 units. This permission allows distribution companies (Discos) to collect electricity bills in instalments.

Apart from tariff increases, other contributing factors to the issue of inflated bills include overbilling, meter readings taken after the due date, and unclear meter reading details.

In certain regions, electricity bills are calculated based on table meter readings, as Discos contend with a shortage of staff. Instead of relying on camera-based meter readings, manual methods are often employed or, in some cases, not done at all.

Consumers in remote areas of Sindh, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan have reported a lack of meter reader visits, with bills generated based on mere assumptions.

Some vigilant consumers have caught Discos employees in the act of conducting meter readings after the due dates. These consumers allege that such delayed readings result in undue charges on their bills. They argue that this practice is a tactic used by Discos to offset losses and cover inefficiencies.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, September 9^th, 2023.

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