Power pilfers in the crosshairs
The CPPA-G justified the proposed increase by highlighting that consumers were already bearing Rs3.08 per unit due to the existing fuel adjustment. This would result in a net impact of Rs1.58 per unit in consumers’ electricity bills. photo: file
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ordered a zero-tolerance policy against electricity theft, smuggling and hoarding.
Chairing a meeting of the energy department, she directed the authorities concerned to conduct a grand operation across the province against electricity theft, smuggling and hoarding to implement a policy devised in a meeting presided over by the prime minister. She directed the officials to fix targets in this regard and present a compliance report after a month.
“Every connection, including industries, factories, shops, houses and shopping malls, will be checked. The relevant authorities will be responsible in case of any failure,” she warned.
The chief minister said anyone found involved in power theft, smuggling or hoarding should not be offered any lenience.
She called for legislation for severe punishments and heavy fines for the elimination of electricity theft. She highlighted that electricity theft is already a cognisable offence, so arrests and immediate punishment should be ensured.
“Action will also be taken against government officials involved in electricity theft. Black sheep within the system should be identified and tried under the relevant laws,” she stressed.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said the energy ministry would also monitor all electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) of the province.
She issued directives to form a task force of experts and government representatives to devise an effective strategy to curb the menace. This task force will monitor the ministry of power, the performance of DISCOs and the operation against electricity theft.
The participants of the meeting were informed that electricity worth Rs100 billion is stolen in Punjab every year.
The chief minister reiterated, “There will be zero tolerance on electricity theft in Punjab. Billions of rupees lost in electricity theft will be spent on health, education and development of the people.”
In a message on the Zero Waste Day, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stressed the importance of responsible use of essential commodities and waste management.
“The world is facing numerous environmental challenges. We need an industrialised economy where resources are used efficiently and minimum waste is generated,” she said and added, “People should adopt eco-friendly alternatives by reducing single-use plastics.”
The chief minister said, “A comprehensive waste management system is being introduced in all major cities of Punjab. For the first time, a sustainable and effective system of village sanitation is being devised.”
She added, “It is my commitment to see every city, village and neighborhood clean.”
“We must choose sustainable products and plan to reduce food waste,” she stated.
The chief minister said, “Old items need to be repaired, donated or repurposed. Do not throw recyclables in the trash, and sorting waste is essential. By working together, a healthy environment and secure future can be achieved from the waste materials.”
Published in The Express Tribune, March 31st, 2024.